Laryngeal carcinoma and laryngo-pharyngeal reflux disease.
A correlation between laryngo-pharyngeal reflux and laryngeal carcinoma is currently debated. Chronic inflammation is a mutagen factor confirmed in the cancerogenesis of various tumours. Aim of the present study was to evaluate, in an objective and consecutive way, with 24h multi-electrode pH-metry the presence of proximal and distal oesophageal reflux in patients presenting pre-cancerosis or squamous cell laryngeal and/or pharyngeal carcinomas. From our data, a strict correlation emerged between laryngo-pharyngeal reflux and neoplasias of the upper airways, documented through multi-electrode pH-metry. Data emerging from this study would seem to support the theory that the protracted exposure (> 20 years) to biliary reflux would represent a statistically significant added risk factor in the precancerous lesions and squamous pharyngo-laryngeal carcinoma as it occurs at oesophageal level. Moreover, a significant statistical association (p < 0.0001) emerged between laryngeal carcinoma and previous gastro-resection (odds ratio 3.8).
Galli
J
J
ENT Department, "A. Gemelli" Polyclinic, Catholic University, Rome, Italy.
Cammarota
G
G
Volante
M
M
De Corso
E
E
Almadori
G
G
Paludetti
G
G
D002277:Carcinoma / Q000453:epidemiology*; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D007822:Laryngeal Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology*; D007830:Larynx / Q000503:physiopathology*; D010614:Pharynx / Q000503:physiopathology*