Neurogenic Tumors of the Larynx: Unusual Presentations in Two Case Studies

Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors (BPNSTs) in the laryngeal and pharyngeal regions are rare; neurofibroma and schwannoma are two distinct histopathologic entities.The presence of these conditions in the laryngopharyngeal region may pose a diagnostic challenge because of their nonspecific clinical and endoscopic features.In this study, we report two cases of BPNSTs arising at unusual anatomical sites.The first case involved a 44-year-old man with a four-week history of dysphonia.Flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy revealed bilateral edema and swelling of the true vocal folds, consistent with bilateral Reinke's edema, and subsequent direct laryngoscopy demonstrated polypoidal degeneration involving the anterior right true vocal fold.The lesion was excised, and histopathologic analysis with immunohistochemical staining confirmed the diagnosis of neurofibroma of the right vocal fold.The second case involved a 49year-old woman who presented with a seven-month history of dysphagia, difficulty speaking, and sleepdisordered breathing.Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a well-defined left oropharyngeal mass measuring approximately 2.1 × 2.5 × 2.0 cm.Direct laryngoscopy showed a firm, broad-based, smoothedged mass arising from the left pharyngoepiglottic fold; complete excision was performed, and histopathologic examination confirmed schwannoma.These cases highlight the rare and diverse manifestations of BPNSTs in the laryngopharyngeal region.Neurofibroma and schwannoma should both be considered in the differential diagnosis of laryngeal and pharyngeal masses.Histopathologic examination remains essential for establishing the definitive diagnosis.