Adult rhabdomyoma of the larynx.

Introduction Rhabdomyoma is a rare benign tumor derived from skeletal muscles. Laryngeal rhabdomyomas are even rarer, with only approximately 40 reported cases in world literature. Laryngeal rhabdomyomas usually are seen as masses covered by mucosa. They are often solitary asymptomatic tumors, but symptoms such as hoarseness can occur. The radiologic features are usually those typical of benign neoplasms, showing well-delineated borders. The differential diagnoses for laryngeal masses include cysts, laryngoceles, and benign and malignant neoplasms. The diagnosis is usually made using histopathologic findings, but in some cases some difficulties can be found. Immunohistochemical staining is of great value in the differentiation of similar tumors. Treatment of rhabdomyoma is surgical excision. Objective To describe a case of rhabdomyoma of the larynx attended at Santa Casa de Misericórdia do Rio de Janeiro. Case Report A 35-year-old man presented with progressive hoarseness in the preceding year. Laryngoscopy showed a large submucosal tumor at the supraglottic region of the larynx. The neck computed tomography scan confirmed the submucosal mass, with distinct borders. The patient was taken to the operating suite, where endoscopic extirpation of the mass was performed. Initial histologic diagnosis was suggestive of paraganglioma, which was not confirmed by studies with immunohistochemical markers, and diagnosis was changed to adult-type rhabdomyoma. The patient recovered well. His voice returned to normal after 3 months. Discussion Although muscle tumors of the larynx are very rare, rhabdomyoma should be considered when there is a submucosal mass in the larynx.

Post-piercing perichondritis.

UNLABELLED: Piercing has become more and more popular among adolescents. The procedure is generally performed by unqualified professionals and carries its risk. Non-sterilized material or inappropiate hygiene increases the possibility of perichondritis and celulitis. The disease is characterized by erythema of the auricula pinna, unbearable pain and fever. Left untreated, the condition progresses with edema along the auricula and abscess formation that may result in ischemic necrosis and a cauliflower anesthetic deformation. The most common bacteria is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In cases with abscesses, drainage is necessary along with antibiotic therapy guided by cultures and antibiogram. AIM: The aim of this case report was to review the past 10 years of published papers dealing with anatomical aspects of the auricular pinna, the history of piercing and its most common complications. METHODS: A case report of perichondritis after 'high' ear piercing that required surgical treatment and that progressed with no esthetic loss. RESULTS: Theoretical and practical experience based on a review and a report of a case that progressed satisfactorily. CONCLUSIONS: The increased incidence of perichondritis in adolescents should require more elaborated primary prevention measures.