[Chemodectoma of the larynx (2 case reports)]

We report two cases of chemodectoma of the larynx. A 70-year-old man underwent a laryngectomy in April 1984 for a tumor diagnosed as a squamous cell carcinoma but which postoperatively proved to be a chemodectoma. Ipsilateral cervical metastases appeared 2 years later and were removed by local excision. Shortly thereafter he presented with recurrent nodes in both sides of the neck as well as cutaneous metastases on the trunk. He was given chemotherapy using a DTIC regime (5-3,3-dimethyl-1-triazino imidazole-4-carboxamide). A 53-year-old lady underwent a total laryngectomy in May 1984 for an extensive chemodectoma of the larynx. The tumor had already invaded the trachea and thyroid gland. Distant metastases were not found. So far she is free of recurrence. We discuss the histology, site, clinical course and therapy of this extremely rare tumor.