Primary Polypeptide Hormones and Mucin-Producing Malignant Carcinoid of the Larynx

Abstract
A case of primary malignant laryngeal carcinoid with dual endocrine and mucous differentiation i s reported. Histologically the tumor showed a characteristic organoid pattern and exhibited Alcian-blue, periodic acidschiff, and Grimelius silver positivity. By the immunoperoxidase technique cal citoni n, ACTH, and or-hCG subunit were demonstrated in the tumor cells. ELectron microscopy revealed two different types of endocrinelike cells: mucous cells and occasional cells containing both endocrinelike granules and mucin droplets. Diagnostic morphologic criteria of this rare tumor entity are discussed and reference t o biologic behavior and possible h istogenesis is made.