BACKGROUND: Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the palatine tonsil is an extremely rare malignancy characterized by an aggressive clinical course and poor prognosis. Its nonspecific presentation often delays diagnosis. METHODS: We present the case of a 76-year-old female patient admitted to the Emergency Department with throat bleeding as her sole symptom. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed an infiltrate in the right palatine tonsil. RESULTS: Following a tonsillectomy, histopathological examination confirmed LCNEC. PET-CT showed no distant metastases or local recurrence, and multidisciplinary consultation excluded adjuvant therapy due to age and comorbidities, opting for ongoing outpatient surveillance. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the importance of oncological vigilance in the differential diagnosis of nonspecific symptoms.
Bugaj et al. (Thu,) studied this question.