Laryngeal Glycogenic Acanthosis Presenting as Leukoplakia

Abstract

We report a case of an incidental finding of glycogenic acanthosis of the larynx on autopsy in a 79-year-old man who died of myocardial infarction. The lesion was grossly recognized as a white plaque (leukoplakia) on the subglottic compartment of the left side of the larynx. Histological sections revealed thickened squamous mucosa positive for abundant glycogen on periodic acid-Schiff staining. No epithelial dysplasia was noted. The patient had a history of smoking. This case represents the first report of glycogenic acanthosis involving the larynx. This benign condition should be added to the vast differential diagnosis of leukoplakia in this anatomical location.

Glycogenic acanthosis presenting as leukoplakia on the tongue

“…Despite their common occurrence in the oesophagus, glycogenic plaques have seldom been detected in other locations. A recent case report described GA in the larynx as an occasional finding during autopsy 9. Features similar to those of GA have been reported in patients with Cowden syndrome,10 a rare genetic disorder characterised by multiple hamartomas affecting various organs,11 but our patient did have any other mucosal or cutaneous lesions indicative of Cowden syndrome.…”

Glycogenic acanthosis on mouth clinically present as white plaque

“…The recognition of a similar standard of epithelial response in larynx and oesophagus suggest that epithelial hyperplasia associated with glycogen accumulation might be a non-specific pattern of epithelial response linked to site-specific injury changes [4]. In a previously published GA case, during a 5-year follow-up, no sign of malignant transformation was observed [6].…”

A rare presentation of glycogenic acanthosis on the lips: A case report

“…[17][18][19][20] While traditionally associated with the esophagus, GA can present in atypical sites, expanding the clinical spectrum of this condition. 9,13,21 The rarity of GA on the lips highlights the need for further research to understand its pathogenesis and potential associations with systemic conditions. Documenting such atypical presentations can aid in the recognition and management of this benign condition in clinical practice.…”

“…17–20 While traditionally associated with the esophagus, GA can present in atypical sites, expanding the clinical spectrum of this condition. 9,13,21…”