[Rare tumors of the base of the tongue and their therapy].

Five rare tumours of the base of the tongue are reported. Diagnosis and therapy of a tuberculoma, an amyloid tumour, a mucoepidermoid carcinoma, a pleomorphic adenoma, and an angioleiomyoma are illustrated. The frequency and other possible sites of these tumours are discussed based on a review of the literature. The standard surgical approaches to the base of the tongue are described, favouring lateral pharyngotomy. The need for careful planning of the operation is stressed including difficulty in intubation and control of bleeding after operation.