Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026

Chromogenic In Situ Hybridization as a Tool for HPV-Related Head and Neck Cancer Diagnosis
Published on: June 14, 2019
Combined small cell carcinoma of the hypopharynx
Nobuhiro Uwa1, Tomonori Terada, Takeshi Mohri
1Department of Otolaryngology, Hyogo College of Medicine, 1-1 Mukogawa-cho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan. nobu-uwa@hyo-med.ac.jp
Abstract:
We report an extremely rare case of combined small cell carcinoma (combined SmCC) of the hypopharynx. A 73-year-old male presented with multiple left neck swellings for 1 month. A tumorous lesion was found in the left pyriform sinus, and biopsy revealed that the lesion was squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC). Surgery was performed and pathological examination led to a diagnosis as combined SmCC, composed of SqCC and small cell carcinoma (SmCC). One month after surgery, a contrast-CT indicated metastases to the cervical lymph node (LN), mediastinum and liver. We performed 5 courses of chemotherapy with the use of cisplatin (CDDP) and irinotecan (CPT-11). The patient temporarily showed a favorable response to the chemotherapy; however, eventually he died of regrowth of the tumor. Combined SmCC is a disease with a poor prognosis. Although biopsy sometimes fails to detect the SmCC component, intensive diagnosis and treatment are necessary.
Related Concept Videos
Cellular Adaptation IV: Dysplasia and Metaplasia
The Thyroid Gland
The follicles have a central cavity lined by simple cuboidal to squamous epithelial cells called follicular cells. These cells produce the glycoprotein...
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features