Supraglottic p16+ squamous cell carcinoma during pregnancy: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND: Head and neck cancer during pregnancy is uncommon. Specifically, laryngeal cancer in pregnancy has only been previously reported 10 times. HPV p16+ supraglottic cancer during pregnancy has never been described in the literature prior to this case report. This case is important to report to understand the most effective and safe diagnostic, treatment and follow-up options available for pregnant patients with laryngeal cancer. CASE PRESENTATION: This report describes a case of a 33-year-old patient who was 24 weeks pregnant presenting with dysphonia and odynophagia. After laryngeal biopsy and MRI she was diagnosed with T3N1M0, stage three p16+ squamous cell carcinoma of the supraglottis. After inter-disciplinary consultation as well as extensive patient discussion, an awake tracheostomy, PEG tube placement and then elective C-section at 28 weeks’ gestation was completed. This was followed by chemoradiotherapy. The patient has remained free from disease with a healthy child at four years post-treatment. CONCLUSION: Supraglottic cancer during pregnancy is rare with only four previous cases reported in the literature. This case report elucidates the importance of including multiple specialities as well as patient preference in the decision-making process regarding treatment for patients with supraglottic cancer during pregnancy. Furthermore, diagnostic and treatment guidelines for pregnant patients with head and neck cancers should be established to promote the best possible oncological, obstetrical and neonatal care.