Chondroma of the cricoid cartilage and diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) as a rare cause of asymptomatic airway compromise: A case report

Laryngeal chondromas (LC) are exceedingly rare, benign mesenchymal tumors, representing less than 1% of laryngeal tumors, predominantly originating from the cricoid cartilage. Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH), or Forestier’s disease, is a common noninflammatory disorder in the elderly, typically asymptomatic, but cervical osteophytes can cause otolaryngological manifestations. We present the case of an 80-year-old male, initially admitted for normotensive hydrocephalus, in whom CT revealed the synchronous presence of a large cricoid chondroma and cervical spinal hyperostosis typical of DISH. Following an unsuccessful intubation attempt, the patient underwent elective tracheostomy and subsequent complete tumor excision via laryngofissure. Histopathological examination confirmed chondroma, characterized by a lobular growth pattern and lack of mitotic activity. This unique co-occurrence highlights the importance of comprehensive radiological assessment for airway compromise in geriatric patients with systemic ossification disorders.