Observations on the simultaneous occurrence of laryngocele and cancer.

The simultaneous occurrence of laryngocele and laryngeal cancer is uncommon. To date, 64 detailed descriptions of this association have appeared in the world's literature. In large restrospective series of laryngeal cancers, the incidence varies between zero and 9.7 per cent. Four additional cases are discussed. The pathogenesis of laryngoceles associated with tumor appears to be related to factors altering the mechanics of the laryngeal ventricle to a chronically elevated intralaryngeal pressure. Circumstances producing a ball valve effect appear to be a factor for saccular distention in some cases. In other instances, the association between laryngocele and cancer is probably coincidental.