Laryngeal Synovial Sarcoma: A Rare Clinical Entity

Abstract

Introduction . Synovial sarcomas (SS) are aggressive malignant soft tissue tumours that are thought to arise from pluripotent mesenchymal cells. Clinical Report . A 20-year-old male presented with an acute onset of respiratory stridor. Computer tomography scanning confirmed a mass arising from the left supraglottic larynx and an emergency tracheostomy was performed. A diagnosis of biphasic synovial sarcoma was formed. A total laryngectomy and left hemithyroidectomy was performed in conjunction with a left modified radical neck dissection. The patient received adjuvant chemotherapy followed by a course of radiotherapy and remains alive and disease free at 18 months after treatment. Discussion . Prognosis for patients with SS is related to primary tumour extent, grade, and size. The presence of the diagnostic translocation, t(X;18), is being targeted and hopefully will lead to the development of new therapeutics (Guadagnolo et al., 2007). Conclusion . Laryngeal SS remains a rare and poorly understood entity. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment is essential and long-term followup is imperative.