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June 14, 2026Head & Neck0 citationsOpen Access

Case Report: Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Palatine Tonsil in a 76‐Year‐Old Patient

ABAgnieszka BugajPoznan University of Medical Sciences NZNatalia ZagozdaPoznan University of Medical Sciences PNPiotr NogalPoznan University of Medical Sciences

Key Points

To present a rare case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the palatine tonsil in an elderly patient.
Case report of a 76-year-old female with throat bleeding admitted to the Emergency Department.
Computed tomography (CT) scan performed, revealing infiltrate in the right palatine tonsil.
Histopathological examination confirmed diagnosis after tonsillectomy.
No distant metastases or local recurrence found on PET-CT after surgery.
Multidisciplinary consultation excluded adjuvant therapy due to patient's age and comorbidities.
Patient is on ongoing outpatient surveillance.

Abstract

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.

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