title: Chondroradionecrosis of the larynx: still a diagnostic dilemma.
abstract: Following radiation treatment for carcinoma of the larynx it may be very difficult to differentiate between persistent or recurrent tumour and severe radiation effects particularly chondroradionecrosis. Despite repeated negative biopsy it may be necessary to perform total laryngectomy where the concern about persistent cancer remains and the larynx is non-functioning. We report nine cases presenting as chondroradionecrosis over a five-year period. Two patients settled on medical treatment. Of seven patients treated with laryngectomy the histology on two revealed residual or recurrent carcinoma. We outline the dilemmas in diagnosis and propose management strategies to deal with this condition including recommendations for prevention and treatment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, Mater Hospital, Dublin.
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Rowley
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Walsh
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: McShane
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Fraser
authors.forename: T P
authors.initials: TP
authors.lastname: O'Dwyer
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007817:Laryngeal Cartilages / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D007822:Laryngeal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009336:Necrosis; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000175:diagnosis; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology