Paraganglioma of the Larynx

Abstract

The laryngeal paraganglioma (LP) is a rare neuroendocrine neoplasm which arises from paraganglionic tissue normally present in the larynx. Immunohistochemistry is essential in the differential diagnosis of the various neuroendocrine neoplasms. The study presents a case of LP arising in an otherwise healthy 30-year-old black woman. Direct laryngoscopy revealed a large mass obstructing the airway almost completely. The patient underwent a total laryngectomy. Histopathological examination showed a population of epithelioid cells arranged in round nests and balls surrounded by a delicate stroma (‘Zellballen’ pattern). The histological and immunohistochemical patterns were coherent with LP. At 24 months after excision, she shows no evidence of disease.