A Dysfunctional Larynx Dilemma: Carcinoma Recurrence or Radiation-induced Damage?

Authors

  • Patricia Ann U. Soriano, MD Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9227-9843
  • Arsenio Claro A. Cabungcal, MD Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila
  • Cesar Vincent L. Villafuerte, III, MD Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila
  • Anna Claudine F. Lahoz, MD Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47895/amp.vi0.4915

Keywords:

laryngeal cancer, laryngectomy, radiotherapy

Abstract

A 61-year-old male diagnosed with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma presented with hoarseness, progressive
dysphagia leading to aspiration, and dyspnea one month after definitive radiation therapy. Examination revealed a diffusely swollen glottis, paralyzed vocal cords, and post-radiation fibrosis. Several glottic biopsies yielded results negative for malignancy and favored radiation-induced changes. When presented with the option of further diagnostic testing with a positron emission tomography (PET) scan or an outright laryngectomy, the patient decided on the latter. Final histopathologic diagnosis was negative for recurrence of malignancy.

This case demonstrates treatment dilemmas for patients with laryngeal carcinoma with uncertain recurrence wherein radical surgical management may prove to be a viable option to achieve both diagnostic certainty and ultimate relief of symptoms.

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Published

2023-11-24

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

1.
A Dysfunctional Larynx Dilemma: Carcinoma Recurrence or Radiation-induced Damage?. Acta Med Philipp [Internet]. 2023 Nov. 24 [cited 2025 Apr. 4];57(11). Available from: https://actamedicaphilippina.upm.edu.ph/index.php/acta/article/view/4915