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VOLUME 6 , ISSUE 1 ( Number, 2014 ) > List of Articles

CASE REPORT

Ultrasound as a Useful Diagnostic Tool in the Follow-up of Laryngeal Carcinoma

Kathleen Klinge, Andreas Mueller

Citation Information : Klinge K, Mueller A. Ultrasound as a Useful Diagnostic Tool in the Follow-up of Laryngeal Carcinoma. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2014; 6 (1):13-15.

DOI: 10.5005/aijoc-6-1-13

License: CC BY-NC 3.0

Published Online: 01-03-2012

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2014; The Author(s).


Abstract

Background

Using neck ultrasound to evaluate the status of the lymph nodes of a patient with a head and neck cancer is common practice but laryngeal ultrasound could help to receive more information of the tumor.

Methods and results

We report a case of an initially T1a N0 M0 G2 R0 squamous-cell carcinoma of the right vocal cord. Despite regular follow-up, the relapse of the tumor remained undetected. The hypopharyngoscopy and laryngoscopy were performed. The tumor was evaluated with laryngeal ultrasound and to confirm the relapse of the tumor a MRI scan was performed. Endoscopically there was no obvious presence of the tumor. Laryngeal ultrasound facilitated the visualization of the tumor in good quality.

Unfortunately, a total laryngectomy was necessary to treat the relapse of the squamous-cell carcinoma (T4a N0 (0/16) M0 G2 R0).

Conclusion

Despite careful follow-up via laryngoscopy a relapse of the laryngeal tumor was not visible. Using laryngeal ultrasound, the relapse might have been detected sooner.


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