[Fluorescence imaging in laryngology: Physical principles, clinical applications and study results]

Abstract

Background: Early detection and adequate preoperative assessment of neoplastic lesions of the larynx allow for voice-preserving therapy concepts.

Objective: The physical principles, clinical applications and most important study results of fluorescence imaging are presented.

Materials and methods: The entire literature on autofluorescence endoscopy of the larynx was analysed and compared to induced fluorescence endoscopy.

Results: In detecting malignant and premalignant lesions of the larynx, autofluorescence endoscopy shows a significantly higher sensitivity, specificity and accuracy than white light endoscopy alone. Induced fluorescence endoscopy achieved an even higher sensitivity, albeit at the expense of specificity.

Conclusion: Autofluorescence endoscopy represents a simple screening procedure for early detection of laryngeal cancer and its precursor lesions, whereas induced fluorescence endoscopy is more suited for the identification of recurrent disease.

Keywords: Autofluorescence imaging; Diagnostic imaging; Larynx; Otorhinolaryngologic neoplasms; Precancerous conditions.