Neuroendocrine carcinomas of the larynx: a review of current literature and case analysis

TL;DR

This paper reviews the challenges in diagnosing and treating rare laryngeal neuroendocrine carcinomas and presents a case study to highlight the need for better guidelines.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive review and case analysis to guide the management of laryngeal neuroendocrine carcinomas.

Findings

Laryngeal NECs are rare, aggressive, and have poor prognosis due to limited case reports and no standardized treatment.

A multidisciplinary approach is essential, with treatment tailored to tumor grade, stage, and subtype.

Molecular profiling and targeted therapies may improve outcomes, but more research is needed.

Abstract

Neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) of the larynx are rare malignancies with aggressive behavior, histopathological diversity, and poor prognosis. Their management remains challenging due to limited case reports and the lack of standardized treatment guidelines. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to summarize classification, diagnosis, and treatment approaches for laryngeal NECs. Additionally, we present a representative case of a 64-year-old male patient diagnosed with large cell NEC of the larynx, treated with surgical resection and adjuvant radiotherapy, with long-term follow-up. Laryngeal NECs require a multidisciplinary approach, and treatment should be tailored based on tumor grade, stage, and histopathological subtype. Advances in molecular profiling and targeted therapies may improve patient outcomes in the future. Due to their rarity, further prospective studies and international collaborations are needed to establish evidence-based treatment guidelines.

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