The role of organ- and function-preserving radiotherapy in the treatment of adenoid cystic carcinoma of the larynx

Head Neck. 2019 Jul;41(7):2208-2214. doi: 10.1002/hed.25678. Epub 2019 Feb 5.

Abstract

Background: To evaluate clinical outcome and functional larynx preservation after radiotherapy (RT) for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the larynx.

Methods: Eleven patients with primary ACC of the larynx, who received RT definitely (n = 5/11) or postoperatively (n = 6/11), were analyzed regarding survival and treatment-related toxicity with the focus on functional larynx preservation.

Results: Median follow-up was 45 months. RT offered an excellent 5-year local control (LC) rate of 100%. Eight of 11 patients were treated with a laryngeal preservation approach (LPA). At last follow-up, only one of these eight patients developed a local recurrence requiring a total laryngectomy 11 years after treatment. Severe toxicity was uncommon, with only one patient with LPA, requiring a temporary tracheostomy during therapy.

Conclusions: RT is an effective treatment method for laryngeal ACC with excellent LC rates, preservation of the laryngeal function and voice formation, representing a valuable therapy alternative to total laryngectomy.

Keywords: ACC; carbon ion; intensity modulated radiotherapy; larynx; larynx preservation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic / radiotherapy*
  • Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic / surgery
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Laryngeal Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Laryngeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Laryngectomy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / surgery
  • Organ Sparing Treatments*
  • Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Young Adult