Update on Neuroendocrine Carcinomas of the Larynx

• Objectives: Laryngeal neuroendocrine carcinomas are heterogeneous neoplasms characterized by neuroendocrine differentiation. Their prognoses are dependent on tumor type, therefore different classifications have been developed. Moreover, other tumors have overlapping pathologic features posing a range of diagnostic possibilities. Methods: A review of the literature was performed to comprehensively understand the classification and diagnosis of these tumors. Results: We review the past and present classification systems, with emphasis to the latest 2017 World Health Organization Classification of Head and Neck Tumors. We highlight salient clinicopathologic features and discuss the presumptive etiologic role of human papilloma virus. We share a practical algorithmic approach to the diagnosis of suspected neuroendocrine neoplasms of the larynx including a novel marker for neuroendocrine differentiation, insulinoma-associated protein 1. Conclusions: Accurate diagnosis and grading of laryngeal neuroendocrine carcinomas is critical for prognostication and therapeutic decision making. The use of an algorithm is instrumental in assuring the exclusion of mimickers.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Cancer och onkologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Cancer and Oncology (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Neuroendocrine carcinoma

Neuroendocrine differentiation

Larynx

INSM1

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

squamous-cell carcinoma

head

neoplasms

neck

expression

diagnosis

utility

tumors

p63

Pathology

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)