Primary dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma occurring in the larynx is a rare head and neck malignancy. The cases reported in the literature suggest male gender predilection and variable clinical outcomes ranging from disease-free survival to disease-related death. Although a calcified matrix is suggestive of chondrosarcoma, the dedifferentiated component is not readily appreciated on conventional imaging modalities and thorough tissue sampling is necessary for confirming the diagnosis. Histologically, there is an abrupt transition from a well-differentiated chondrosarcoma to a high-grade spindle cell component, which can show focal heterologous differentiation. These features are exemplified in this sine qua non radiology-pathology correlation article.
Keywords: Cricoid cartilage; Head and neck malignancy; Heterologous differentiation; Larynx; Primary dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma; Well-differentiated chondrosarcoma.