Solitary fibrous tumor of the larynx.

Background: True mesenchymal, non-cartilaginous neoplasms of the larynx are rare. Extrapleural solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a localized neoplasm characterized by proliferation of thin-walled vessels and collagen-producing cells and is considered within the "hemangiopericytoma-solitary fibrous tumor" spectrum. SFT primary in the larynx is exceptional.

Design: Case report set in a comparison with other cases reported in the English literature (MEDLINE 1966 to 2007).

Results: A 49-year old white male presented with difficulty breathing, progressive over the past 2 years. He denied dysphagia and weight loss. Past medical history was significant for asthma. He denied cigarette smoking or alcohol abuse. There were no cervical deformities on physical exam. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy was performed upon stabilization of respiratory function. A smooth, round, submucosal mass measuring 2.3 cm in greatest diameter arising from the inferior surface of left true vocal cord was causing near total obstruction of the endolaryngeal space. The mass was excised. The surface mucosa was intact and unremarkable. A cellular, spindle cell neoplasm was arranged in loose fascicles, associated with heavy collagen fiber deposition. The collagen was wiry and heavy. Cells were bland with cytoplasmic extensions. The nuclei were vesicular to hyperchromatic and elongated with inconspicuous nucleoli. Vessels were prominent and delicate, with patulous spaces. Mitotic figures were easily identified, but atypical forms were not present. The cells were strongly and diffusely immunoreactive with CD34 and bcl-2, while non-reactive with cytokeratin, EMA, actin, ALK-1, S100, desmin, and CD117. These findings confirmed a diagnosis of extraplural solitary fibrous tumor. Without further disease, the patient is alive without evidence of disease, 12 months after surgery.

Conclusions: The characteristic histologic pattern of solitary fibrous tumor can be noted in extrapulmonary locations. Development in the larynx is uncommon, but the tumor presents as a polypoid mass with characteristic histologic and immunophenotypic features. Conservative local excision is the treatment of choice to yield an excellent prognosis.