Laryngeal Verrucous Carcinoma: A Population-Based Analysis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Laryngology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Verrucous carcinoma of the larynx (VCL) is a rare laryngeal malignancy.
• Existing analyses are limited, necessitating population-based studies for comprehensive understanding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the frequency, incidence, and survival trends of VCL.
• To guide clinical diagnosis and decision-making for VCL.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.
• Inclusion of VCL cases diagnosed between 1973 and 2011.
• Evaluation of patient demographics, tumor characteristics, incidence, treatment, and survival.

Main Results:

• 516 VCL cases identified; predominantly affecting males (88.4%) and White patients (88.4%).
• Most VCL cases (79.7%) occurred in the glottis, a statistically significant predilection.
• VCL incidence decreased annually by -5.4% from 2000-2011; 5-year survival was 88.0% (disease-specific) and 85.5% (relative).

Conclusions:

• VCL is a laryngeal malignancy with a good prognosis, predominantly arising in the glottis, and showing a declining incidence.
• Surgery may be associated with improved survival outcomes for VCL patients.
• Potential selection bias in high-stage lesions requires consideration when interpreting survival data related to treatment modality.