Neurofibroma of the larynx in neurofibromatosis: preoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

Neurofibromas of the larynx are extremely rare. They occur in association with neurofibromatosis less frequently than solitary neurofibromas. However, most laryngeal tumors in neurofibromatosis are neurofibromas. This disorder has 2 histological subtypes, which require different surgical approaches because of their biological differences. Few cross-sectional imaging studies have been performed in neurofibroma of the larynx. We describe a 44-year-old man with neurofibromatosis and nonplexiform neurofibroma of the larynx and discuss the role of preoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in this case. The tumor was removed completely using an endolaryngeal approach without an external incision. It was possible to distinguish subtypes preoperatively on cross-sectional imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging provided more sensitive information in the diagnosis of this tumor than computed tomography. Preoperative cross-sectional imaging should be performed to help the surgeon diagnose and choose an appropriate surgical approach for this disorder.