Small cell undifferentiated carcinoma of the larynx

A patient with a small cell, undifferentiated carcinoma of the larynx is described. The tumor appeared to arise in close association with subglottic minor salivary glands. Ultrastructural study of the tumor cells showed neurosecretory granules similar to those seen in normal Kulchitsky cells and pulmonary oat cell carcinomas. Bronchogenic oat cell carcinoma and small cell undifferentiated carcinoma of minor salivary gland tissue probably originate from the same cell type. The aggressive behavior of this tumor suggests the need for early systemic treatment including combination chemotherpay.