Unusual T- and T/NK- cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the larynx: a diagnostic challenge for clinicians and pathologists.
BACKGROUND
Lymphomas of T-cell and T/natural killer (T/NK)-cell types rarely involve the larynx. Early symptoms are subtle and nonspecific, and confirmation of the diagnosis is often difficult. Because of the rarity of this disease entity, the optimal management remains controversial.


METHODS
The case records of patients with the diagnosis of lymphoma involving the larynx were retrospectively reviewed. Details of the pathologic condition, the difficulties in diagnosis, and treatment were presented.


RESULTS
One case of T-cell lymphoma (Lennert's lymphoma subtype) and two cases of T/NK-cell lymphomas involving the larynx were presented. The diagnoses were all difficult to establish. All three patients received either multiagent chemotherapy or radiotherapy as the first-line treatment. They all died of the disease within 32 months of diagnosis.


CONCLUSIONS
T- and T/NK-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the larynx is a diagnostic challenge for clinicians and pathologists. Conventional chemotherapy or radiotherapy has not been effective. A more aggressive therapy should be considered.
Mok
J S
JS
Division of Otorhinolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong.
Pak
M W
MW
Chan
K F
KF
Chow
J
J
Hasselt
C A
CA
D000328:Adult; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006801:Humans; D007694:Killer Cells, Natural; D007822:Laryngeal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D016399:Lymphoma, T-Cell / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D016411:Lymphoma, T-Cell, Peripheral / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis; D012189:Retrospective Studies