Synovial sarcoma of the lateral pharyngeal wall

Objective: The present study describes the clinical, radiological and histological features of pharyngeal synovial sarcoma, on the basis of one clinical case, and discusses management.

Case study: A 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.

Discussion: Synovial sarcoma raises diagnostic and therapeutic issues. Prognostic factors are not clearly established.

Conclusion: Pharyngeal 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.