Hazardous giant pharyngoesophageal liposarcoma

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Surgical Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Pharyngeal masses can cause significant dysphagia and airway compromise.
• Fibrovascular polyps are typically benign, but malignant transformation or misdiagnosis can occur.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management of pharyngeal lesions.

Observation:

• An elderly male presented with progressive dysphagia and acute respiratory distress.
• Endoscopic examination revealed an elongated, fatty mass with a stalk on the posterior pharyngeal wall.
• Initial clinical and radiological assessments suggested a benign fibrovascular polyp.

Findings:

• Transoral endoscopic resection using a vessel sealing device was performed.
• Histopathological examination confirmed the mass as a well-differentiated liposarcoma.
• The patient achieved a full recovery after surgical excision.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of histopathological confirmation for pharyngeal masses, even with apparent benign features.
• Advanced endoscopic techniques and technologies facilitate minimally invasive resection of complex pharyngeal lesions.
• Integrated preoperative assessment, surgical technology, and targeted therapy are vital for managing challenging pharyngoesophageal polyps.