Laryngeal paraganglioma: update on diagnosis and treatment

Sixty-one cases of laryngeal paraganglioma have been reported in the world literature. Histologic and clinical similarities between this neuroendocrine neoplasm and other organoid laryngeal tumors have led to uncertainty regarding the malignant potential and prognosis of this entity. Immunohistochemical assays have identified biogenic amines and hormonal peptides in these tumors which may prove useful as diagnostic markers. Computer tomography (CT) scanning demonstrates an enhancing lesion and can determine the location and extent of the tumor. The generally small size and constant blood supply of the laryngeal paraganglioma make preoperative angiography unnecessary. Accordingly, intraoperative ligation of the arterial blood supply negates the need for embolization. Partial laryngectomy remains the mainstay of treatment. A case is reported of a patient with a paraganglioma of the larynx who was unsuccessfully treated by laser excision and required surgical resection.