Nonchromaffin Paraganglioma of the Larynx

Abstract

A case of nonchromaffin paraganglioma of the larynx, successfully treated with a supraglottic laryngectomy, is added to the five previously reported cases of this tumor arising in the larynx. A possible origin of this tumor is related to migration of neuroepithelial elements of the parasympathetic nervous system. A smooth, red, supraglottic mass associated with heavy bleeding at the time of biopsy should suggest the possibility of a nonchromaffin paraganglioma. Conservative therapy appears to be adequate, although long-term follow-up studies are not available.