Small cell carcinoma base of tongue

Abstract

Neuroendocrine small cell carcinomas (SCCs) are most commonly seen in the lung, and they rarely may arise in the extra pulmonary sites. Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the tongue is an extremely rare entity with only seven cases reported in literature till date. Herein, we present a case of a 59-year-old male with a limited-stage small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the base of the tongue. We discuss clinical, pathological, radiological findings, and management of SCC of the base of tongue. Histopathological examination using immunohistochemistry, clinical features, and radiologic findings are all important for the correct diagnosis of extrapulmonary SCCs. As no standard therapeutic regimen exists, it is important to be aware of and to know how to deal with such rare cases.