A sarcoma is a malignant tumor that originates in mesenchymal tissue. Mesenchymal tissue comprises muscle, bone, fat, connective tissue, blood vessels, and cartilage. If, instead, a malignancy originates in lining or covering tissues—which includes skin, bronchial tubes, the lining of the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract, and breast and salivary gland ducts—then that tumor is called a carcinoma.

Carcinomas are far more common than sarcomas, and sarcomas involving the larynx are rare, with chondrosarcoma (“chondro-” refers to cartilage origin) heading the list. The clinicians at our laryngology practice have seen hundreds of carcinomas in their career, but probably no more than 20 sarcomas.

Sarcoma in the Larynx

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Sarcoma (1 of 2)

Sarcoma of larynx. The tumor nearly fills the glottis.

Sarcoma (2 of 2)

Closer view, showing the posterior commissure airway.


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