Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of hypopharynx: A distinct histopathological entity

Abstract

Aim: To present a case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) involving the hypopharynx focusing on the histopathological diagnosis, radiological investigations and oncology treatment. Methodology: A case report with relevant literature review Case report: A 71-year-old Caucasian male presented with a four-month history of right sided sore throat, a one-month history of feeling something stuck in his throat at the level of the larynx associated with a deeper voice and two weeks history of right referred otalgia. On examination his voice has a rough but there was no stridor. There was a 2 x 2 cm node palpable in the right neck level II. Flexible pharyngolaryngoscopy revealed an exophytic growth on the right aryepiglottic fold that was covering the whole of the glottis. However, panendoscopy showed a large exophytic mass filling up the right piriform fossa involving the adjacent aryepiglottic fold and the postcricoid region. The biopsy confirmed the LCNEC and the fine needle aspiration cytology showed metastasis in his neck. The scans did not show any widespread disease in the body. He was managed in the multidisciplinary team setting and was treated with chemoradiotherapy. Conclusion: LCNEC involving the hypopharynx is an extremely rare clinical entity with poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and radical treatment with chemoradiotherapy would appear to be an acceptable treatment option.