Structural biology of intraepithelial neuroendocrine cells in the larynx: Literature review

Abstract

Current knowledge of laryngeal neuroendocrine cells in man and other vertebrates is reviewed. Particular attention is paid to differences in the distribution of neuroendocrine cells between squamous and respiratory laryngeal mucosa, foetal versus post-natal spatial arrangements, relation to the laryngeal cavity and nerve fibres, and immunoreactivities of these cells. Methodological deficiencies and gaps in knowledge are outlined. Comparisons with neuroendocrine cells in lung and gut are drawn, caution with regard to existing histogenetic models of laryngeal neuroendocrine neoplasia is advised and lines of future research are suggested.

Keywords: Electron microscopy; Histology; Immunohistochemistry; Larynx; Neuroendocrine cells.