Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Nasopharynx

BACKGROUND: Nasopharyngeal malignant tumors were relatively rare head and neck tumors with a low global incidence. There were various pathologic types of nasopharyngeal malignant tumors, and small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (SCNEC) was a highly malignant subtype with rapid growth and early metastasis. SCNEC was rare in the nasopharynx, and its clinical presentation and treatment strategy were different from other types of nasopharyngeal malignancies, posing a challenge to clinicians. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of its diagnosis and treatment was essential. CASE PRESENTATIONS: In February 2024, a 32-year-old male presented with nasal congestion, right ear stuffiness, right ear hearing loss, and right ear pain. Electron nasopharyngoscopy and nasopharyngeal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a large tumor in the nasopharynx. Pathologic examination confirmed the pathologic type as SCNEC. The patient was finally diagnosed with SCNEC. After chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy, the tumor size was significantly reduced, and the clinical symptoms were significantly improved. CONCLUSION: This case provided insights into the diagnosis and treatment of nasopharyngeal malignancies, particularly for a rare pathologic type (SCNEC), potentially enhancing the overall understanding of the disease.