Chondroid tumors of the larynx: Computed tomography findings

Purpose: Chondromas and chondrosarcomas of the larynx are rare cartilaginous tumors making up less than 1% of all laryngeal tumors. Patients typically present with symptoms of hoarseness, dysphagia, or dyspnea. The most common location in the larynx for these tumors is the cricoid cartilage. Radiographically, these lesions are typically hypodense, well-circumscribed masses containing mottled calcifications with smooth walls centered within the cartilage. Materials and Methods: We present 6 cases of chondroid tumors of the larynx. Results: One patient had a chondroma, 4 patients had low-grade chondrosarcomas, and 1 patient had an intermediate-grade chondrosarcoma. Two partial laryngeal resections and 4 total laryngectomies were performed. Conclusions: In most cases of chondroma or chondrosarcoma of the larynx, conservative surgery should be attempted, but total laryngectomy may be required for large or recurrent lesions. Copyright a 1999 by W.B. Saunders Company.