Basaloid squamous carcinoma of the larynx.
BACKGROUND
Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a distinct variant of squamous cell carcinoma that was first described by Wain et al in 1986. Since then, about 160 cases have been reported in the literature. Only 40 cases have been described in the larynx.


METHODS
Four cases of BSCC of the larynx treated in our department between 1986 and 2000 are presented. The clinical features, biological behavior, and histopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of this uncommon tumor are described, and the relevant literature is reviewed.


RESULTS
The main clinical presentation did not differ from other histological types of laryngeal carcinoma. The clinical course, however, was much more aggressive. All the patients received aggressive therapy including radical surgery and radiation. Two patients received chemotherapy. Two of the 4 patients presented died of distant metastasis shortly after diagnosis and treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
The finding of this study with a limited number of patients supports previous reports suggesting that BSCC is a highly aggressive tumor that presents in older population with male predominance. The frequency of associated regional as well as distant metastases suggests that aggressive treatment is indicated and that systemic chemotherapy should be contemplated.
Bahar
Gideon
G
Department of Otolaryngology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
Feinmesser
Raphael
R
Popovtzer
Aharon
A
Ulanovsky
David
D
Nageris
Ben
B
Marshak
Gideon
G
Feinmesser
Meora
M
D000368:Aged; D002281:Carcinoma, Basosquamous / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007822:Laryngeal Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D007830:Larynx / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged