Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the larynx: A report of two cases

Abstract

Laryngeal adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is extremely rare, worldwide. From January 1994 to January 2014, all cases of laryngeal ACC that were diagnosed in the four largest hospitals in Hainan province, were reviewed. Only two such cases were identified. The first patient had a tumor in the subglottic region and the second patient, in the glottic region. The patient with subglottic ACC, who had experienced ongoing symptoms for 3 years, had previously been diagnosed with asthma, at a local hospital. Both presented at an advanced stage. The patient with subglottic disease received a total laryngectomy with a positive surgical margin, was treated with adjuvant radiotherapy, and later succumbed to a pleural effusion as a result of pulmonary metastases. The patient with glottic disease received a partial laryngectomy and declined adjuvant radiotherapy. Subsequently, she developed recurrent disease and passed away following an episode of asphyxia at 14 months post‑surgery. Each of these cases had a poor prognosis at presentation. For patients with locoregionally advanced laryngeal ACC, more effective management strategies are required.