Laryngeal Myxoglobulosis: A Rare Histologic Variant of Mucocele. The First Reported Case

Myxoglobulosis is a rare histologic variant of mucocele that is characterized by transformation of mucin into eosinophilic globules. The globules frequently demonstrate a lamellar pattern and are surrounded by an inflammatory cell infiltrate. Myxoglobulosis has not yet been described in laryngeal mucosa. A 62 year old man presented for a check-up with hoarseness of 2 months duration. He was a current smoker and reported a 40 year habit. An asymmetrical swelling along the length of both vocal cords was consistent with a clinical diagnosis of Reinke’s edema. The histopathologic examination demonstrated bilateral pseudocyst formation within Reinke’s space. Extravasated mucin was present in the form of eosinophilic globules that filled the left Reinke’s space almost entirely and were also seen on the right side. The pseudocyst, mucinous globules, and accompanying inflammatory cells were characteristic of myxoglobulosis. The sequelae of nicotine abuse, including inflammation, increased mucous secretion, and a rasping cough, are considered to be the main etiological factors of laryngeal myxoglobulosis. The patient had no evidence of voice disorder at 18 month follow-up. This case report contributes to the recognition of an exceptionally rare histologic variant of laryngeal mucocele.