Chondrosarcoma of the larynx and trachea: A report of two rare cases

Objectives/Hypothesis: To study the presentation, histopathological characteristics, and management of chondrosarcoma of the larynx and trachea, including the rare clear cell variant. Study Design: Case report. Methods: We report two cases of chondrosarcoma, one arising in the trachea and another of the clear cell variant originating in the thyroid cartilage. Results: Case 1 is an 80-year-old male who presented with cough and was found to have an exophytic mass that involved the first through fourth tracheal rings. Biopsy revealed grade I-II chondrosarcoma. He underwent composite resection with primary anastomosis and remained free of disease 36 months after surgery. Case 2 is a 45 year old male who presented with a neck mass and dysphonia and was found to have a large mass arising from the left thyroid ala. Histopathologic analysis revealed the clear cell variant of chondrosarcoma. The patient underwent partial laryngectomy with adjuvant radiation therapy. He remains free of disease 34 months after surgery. Conclusion: Tracheal and clear cell laryngeal chondrosarcomas are rare tumors that may be treated with conservative surgical resection as long as free margins are attainable. The aggressive nature of the clear cell variant warrants consideration of adjuvant radiation.