Verrucous carcinoma of the larynx--a misnomer

A serie of our observations of so-called "verrucous carcinomas" of the larynx show that these peculiar lesions do not develop true infiltrating growths or metastases, and do not fulfill the criteria of a true carcinoma. Our experiences indicate that these cases can be treated successfully by repeated endoscopic resections. We have found that no aggressive radical treatment - either by surgery or irradiation - is necessary in managing these lesions. Although the etiology of "Ackerman's tumor" of the larynx is still uncertain, we suggest that the lesions develop as the result of a virus infection and propose again the term "verrucous acanthosis" instead of verrucous carcinoma for this disease.