Abstract

Giant cell tumor arising in the osteocartilaginous tissue of the larynx is extremely rare. The few reported cases have all occurred in men older than 20 years and the site of origin has been exclusively localized to the thyroid and cricoid cartilages that are known to undergo enchondral ossification. The formation of giant cell tumor in larynx is thought to be related to this enchondral ossification process. We report a case of giant cell tumor arising in the thyroid cartilage of a 39 year old man. CT scan of the neck revealed a well defined mass of soft tissue density replacing the right thyroid cartilage. Grossly the tumor was well demarcated with a distinctive pushing margin except for the area bordering the submucosa of the larynx where it showed focally an infiltrative pattern of growth. Microscopically multinucleated giant cells were found dispersed regularly among the spindle cells. Although mitoses were frequently noted in the spindle cells there was no atypicality or pleomorphism. Total laryngectomy was performed without further treatment. Postoperative follow up for 6 months has proved the patient to be alive and well without recurrence.

• Keywords: Giant cell tumor;larynx thyroid cartilage;enchondral ossification