[Basal-squamous carcinoma of the hypopharynx and larynx]

Another case of a very rare type of carcinoma is presented which was introduced recently as occurring in hypopharynx, larynx and tongue. Macroscopical description of an exophytic tumour of aryepiglottic fold and piriform recess in a 41-year old man is the second one in literature. Main histological feature of the tumour is a biphasic cellular structure with closely related basaloid and squamous components. Immunohistochemical expression of the squamous component concerned carcinoembryonic antigen, whereas S-100 protein, desmin and neuron specific granules. The small group of one own case and of 11 cases from the literature seems to support the idea that the tumour is aggressive, tending to early regional and remote metastases, and with shorter survival than other subtypes of epidermoid carcinoma.