Synovial sarcoma of the lateral pharyngeal wall

SummaryObjectiveThe present study describes the clinical, radiological and histological features of pharyngeal synovial sarcoma, on the basis of one clinical case, and discusses management.Case studyA male patient, aged 27 years, presented with synovial sarcoma of the lateral pharyngeal wall, revealed by pharyngeal discomfort and bloody sputum. CT and MRI showed a partially necrotic tumoral process centered on the upper half of the piriform sinus. Pathologic analysis found a malignant biphasic tumor, suggestive of synovial sarcoma. Partial pharyngolaryngectomy was performed on a lateral approach, with associated radiotherapy.DiscussionSynovial sarcoma raises diagnostic and therapeutic issues. Prognostic factors are not clearly established.ConclusionPharyngeal synovial sarcoma is a rare tumor. Treatment is essentially surgical, requiring wide margins; radiotherapy is usually associated. The value of chemotherapy has yet to be assessed.