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Chondroradionecrosis of the larynx: still a diagnostic dilemma

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

H. Rowley ,
M. Walsh ,
D. McShane ,
I. Fraser  and
T. P. O'Dwyer
H. Rowley*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Mater Hospital, Dublin. Department of Otolaryngology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.
M. Walsh
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.
D. McShane
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Adelaide Hospital, Dublin.
I. Fraser
Affiliation:
Department of Radiotherapy, St Luke's Hospital, Dublin.
T. P. O'Dwyer
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Mater Hospital, Dublin.
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Helena Rowley, F.R.C.S.I., Department of Otolaryngology, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, PO Box 147, Prescot Street, Liverpool L69 3BX.
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Abstract

Following radiation treatment for carcinoma of the larynx it may be very difficult to differentiate between persistent or recurrent tumour and severe radiation effects particularly chondroradionecrosis. Despite repeated negative biopsy it may be necessary to perform total laryngectomy where the concern about persistent cancer remains and the larynx is non-functioning. We report nine cases presenting as chondroradionecrosis over a five-year period. Two patients settled on medical treatment. Of seven patients treated with laryngectomy the histology on two revealed residual or recurrent carcinoma.

We outline the dilemmas in diagnosis and propose management strategies to deal with this condition including recommendations for prevention and treatment.

Keywords

Laryngeal neoplasmsRadiotherapy, complications
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 109 , Issue 3 , March 1995 , pp. 218 - 220
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1995

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