Synovial Sarcoma of the Larynx: Case report from the perspective of swallowing, voice and quality of life

Abstract

Introduction: Synovial sarcoma is an aggressive tumor commonly found in the lower limbs and rarely described in the larynx. The literature recommends multimodal treatment with radiotherapy, chemotherapy and total laryngectomy. Purpose: To describe the functional and quality of life impacts on voice and swallowing of an adolescent who developed a monophasic synovial sarcoma of the larynx. Method: A 16-year-old adolescent who developed a monophasic synovial sarcoma of the larynx in childhood, who underwent an extended arytenoidectomy due to laryngopharyngeal access associated with radiotherapy at the age of 11. The less aggressive cancer treatment was adequate for cancer control and functional results of the case described here, presenting a voice with satisfactory quality and exclusive oral route. The endoscopic evaluation showed a larynx with infantile proportions, revealing growth interruption at the time of treatment. The patient has a 5-year and 6-month survival rate, higher than the average two-year survival rate described in the literature, referring to a good quality of life. Conclusion: The adolescent has oncological control and satisfactory functional results of voice and swallowing, without major interferences in his quality of life. Family support and specialized multidisciplinary care proved to be paramount.