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

Bugaj, Agnieszka; Zagozda, Natalia; Nogal, Piotr; Miczuga, Gabriela; Czech, Bartosz; Banaszewski, Jacek · Head Neck · 2026

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

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. 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. 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. This case highlights the importance of oncological vigilance in the differential diagnosis of nonspecific symptoms.