[Laryngeal cancer in a young adult].

BACKGROUND

Carcinoma of the larynx is uncommon in young adults. Persistent dysphonia despite medical treatment is generally the primary manifestation.

CASE REPORT: A 21-year-old woman with no known risk factors developed squamous cell carcinoma of the left vocal cord. Clinical cure was considered to be achieved 40 months after external radiotherapy.

DISCUSSION: Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of carcinoma of the larnyx in young patients with no risk factors. Treatment should take into consideration not only the aggressive nature of these tumors but also the long-term side effects and the major functional and psychological sequelae.