Base of tongue neuroendocrine carcinoma: A case report

Small Cell Non-keratinizing Neuroendocrine Carcinoma Involving the Larynx and the Base of the Tongue: A Rare Case With a Locally Aggressive Spread

“…These tumors can develop in a range of organs, including the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and other areas where neuroendocrine cells are present [ 5 ]. The nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, nasopharynx, larynx, salivary glands, and middle ear are all affected by NECs of the head and neck, which are a group of heterogeneous epithelial neoplastic proliferations [ 6 ]. The supraglottis is a very often documented location for these carcinomas, while they may progress to other laryngeal regions as well.…”

“…The supraglottis is a very often documented location for these carcinomas, while they may progress to other laryngeal regions as well. The larynx is the most common site for neuroendocrine carcinoma in the head and neck region, whereas cases in the posterior aspect of the tongue are rare [ 6 ]. In our case, the patient presented with dysphagia and hoarseness of voice initially, and later hypersalivation, so probably the tumor arose primarily in the supraglottis with a secondary involvement of the base of the tongue over a period of two months.…”

“…NECs are uncommon and have a variety of clinical demonstrations, making it difficult to diagnose and manage them. The diagnosis and treatment approach for NECs depend on the specific type, their location, hormone production, aggressiveness, and the presence of metastasis to other parts of the body [ 6 ].…”