Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the larynx

Three cases of primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the larynx are described. Histologically, two tumours belonged to the category of low grade B-cell lymphomas of the small cell type (extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma and lymphoplasmacytoid lymphoma), and the third was classified as a peripheral T-cell lymphoma of unspecified type. The clinical stage was IE in two cases, and IV in another case. In two cases, complete remission was obtained with radical radiotherapy. But in the other case, which was histologically lympheplasmacytoid lymphoma, the response to radiotherapy was poor, and surgery was required. There was no relapse subsequent to treatment. Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the larynx is rare. Several reported cases have clinical features similar to these of MALT-type lymphomas arising in other extranodal sites. Although most of the reported cases have been cured with radiotherapy, in some cases dissemination to other extranodal sites may occur. Therefore careful periodic evaluation is imperative.