Primary laryngeal manifestation in precursor T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Primary involvement of the larynx in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is rare. Early symptoms are non-specific and thus, it is difficult to diagnose. In the present study, the case of a 52 year-old male with hoarseness due to diffuse T-cell lymphoma as the first manifestation of precursor T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is presented. Subsequent to treatment with three cycles of the etoposide and cytosine arabinoside (EA) and one cycle of the EA+L-asp chemotherapy regimens, the patient achieved complete remission. A series of consolidation therapy courses were performed subsequently. At present, the patient remains disease-free, indicating that the treatment was effective. Primary involvement of the larynx in NHL is rare. Symptoms in the early stage are subtle and non-specific and thus, diagnosis is difficult to establish. This type of tumor requires special diagnostic and therapeutic attention.