Case report: A laser and radiofrequency ablation in a laryngeal chondrosarcoma

Chondrosarcoma is a tumor which arises from cartilage, and whose apparition can occur in any site. However, it remains rare in the larynx. Management depends on the grade and the stage of the tumor at the time of the presentation. Here is described the case of a 73-year-old man, who presented with a one-month history of dyspnea due to a low-grade (grade I) laryngeal chondrosarcoma. The tumor was successfully treated through a laser and radiofrequency ablation.

A 73-year-old man presented with dyspnea that appeared one month earlier. He underwent clinic examination and CT-scan analysis, which revealed a laryngeal lesion. Histological analysis of the lesion led to the conclusion of a low-grade chondrosarcoma. A non-surgical management was chosen during a multidisciplinary consultation meeting, to preserve laryngeal functions. The patient underwent repeated laser and radiofrequency ablation, to reduce the tumor volume. At present, there is still a mass in the area, but the patient doesn't present any other symptoms. However, he has a close follow up, in order that the signs of an early tumoral evolution are promptly detected.

Total laryngectomy is often used for laryngeal chondrosarcoma, but it leads to a complete loss of the laryngeal functions, among which we can quote the speaking. Thereby, it would be better for patients to find other ways of conservative management. Consequently, our case presents the success of laser and radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of a laryngeal chondrosarcoma, which allowed to protect laryngeal functions. Nevertheless, this is a non-curative method showing some limitations but improving surgery outcomes and patient quality of life.

This report highlights the importance of quick grading in primary laryngeal chondrosarcoma. In this case, localized low-grade chondrosarcoma was treated without surgery, with a successful outcome thanks to laser and radiofrequency ablation.