Composite primary small cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottic Larynx

Combined primary small cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma is a rare carcinoma of larynx of which less than 20 cases reported in the English literature. We report a case of a 62-year--old man, who presented with a history of hoarseness of his voice and dysphagia. He underwent flexible naso endoscopy which revealed a mass involving the right side of his larynx, subsequent to which he underwent direct laryngoscopy and biopsy of the mass. Histopathological examination of the specimen showed features consistent with composite small cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. Based on computed tomography scan findings and laryngoscopy assessment, his tumor was staged T4N2cM0. He was planned to undergo chemo-radiation. Pursuant to receiving two cycles of chemotherapy he was found to have developed pulmonary metastatic nodules. He was next treated by means of palliative chemo-radiotherapy and died 9 months following the initial diagnosis.