Larynx Chondroma: A Case Report

Introduction: The larynx chondroma is a rare cartilaginous benign neoplasm and is characterized by relatively slow growing, involving more often the cricoid cartilage. Male adults over 40 years are most commonly affected. Classically, it presents with dysphonia and, more rarely, progressive dyspnea and dysphagia. The laryngoscopy usually shows integrate mucosa, with or without hyperemia with hardened underlying mass. The differentiation between chondromas and low-grade chondrosarcoma malignancy is usually difficult by the slow growth and the hypocellularity. It is preferable choosing a conservative surgery for complete removal of the tumor with safety-free margins. A laryngectomy is indicated when there is involvement of more than half of the cricoid cartilage with significant midline shift, difficulty of conservative resection, and tumor recurrence. In case of relapse, chondrosarcoma must be dismissed because chondromas recurrences are rare after complete resection.

Objectives: The objective of this report is to describe a case of larynx chondroma treated at the ENT Department of Santa Casa of Curitiba, PR.

Resumed Report: A 45-year-old male patient began about 4 months of dysphonia with progressive worsening. Laryngoscopy showed right vocal fold immobility in adduction and ipsilateral subglottic mass. He submitted his microlaryngoscopy and biopsy of the lesion, and the result was chondroma. The patient underwent hemilaryngectomy, with safety margins.

Conclusion: The larynx chondromas are rare benign tumors of this region and have slow growth, but they must be distinguished from similar malignancies. Treatment is aimed at complete resection with clear margins, while maintaining the structural function when possible.