Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in a 4-year-Old child: A rare case report

Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (LSCC) is an extremely rare malignancy cancer in children, accounting for less than 1 % of head and neck cancers in those under 18. This case report discusses a 4-year-old boy with a three-year history of worsening respiratory distress and stridor, who was ultimately diagnosed with superficially invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. The child showed significant symptoms that led to further assessment. Indirect laryngoscopy revealed a whitish lesion on the left vocal cord and posterior commissure. Microlaryngoscopy under general anesthesia allowed complete removal of the lesion, initially thought to be juvenile papillomatosis. However, histopathology confirmed LSCC, showing acanthotic stratified squamous epithelium with marked pleomorphism and lamina propria invasion. This case emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of pediatric laryngeal cancer, despite its rarity and the risk of misdiagnosis. It adds to the limited literature on this condition and underscores the need for clinicians to remain vigilant when evaluating respiratory symptoms in children.