Post cricoid carcinoma

Case contributed by Ahmed Abdrabou
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Dysphagea, odynophagea and vomiting of 1 month duration

Patient Data

Age: 60 years old
Gender: Female
mri

An ill defined soft tissue mass is seen occupying the prevertebral region at level of C5-C6 and infiltrating the posterior aspect of the larynx with marked narrowing of the airways. This lesion displays hypointense signal in T1, hyperintense signal in T2 and STIR with strong enhancement post contrast administration. The parapharyngeal fat planes are infiltrated as well. No sizable lymphadenopathy detected. There is also left apical lung nodules yet proved to be inflammatory.

Diagnosis: post cricoid or hypopharyngeal carcinoma (pathology proved)

Case Discussion

The patient is known to have iron deficiency anemia and dysphagea about 5 years ago and hence the diagnosis of Plummer Vinson syndrome was made. Hypopharyngeal carcinoma may occur as a complication. It is more common in females. This patient receive radiotherapy and chemotherapy prior to surgery.

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