[Chondroma of the larynx--case report and differential diagnosis in CT]

The characteristic features of chondroma and chondrosarcoma of the larynx (less than 1% of laryngeal tumors) are discussed in a case report. Laryngoscopy (rounded, smooth tumor, covered by normal mucous membrane) and HR-CT of the larynx (swelling of the cartilages, calcifications in 80% of cases) give a characteristic view of the tumor, so that, by synopsis of both, a definite diagnostic statement concerning the kind of tumor is possible. However, carcinoma of the larynx with invasion of the cartilage, laryngeal manifestation of multiple chondromatosis and calcification after severe trauma have to be differentiated from cartilaginous tumors of the larynx. The adequate therapy of chondroma and low-grade chondrosarcoma consists of partial laryngectomy and reconstruction of the air passages. High-grade chondrosarcoma should be treated with radical laryngectomy.