abstract: Fluorescence diagnostic methods enable tumor visualization via specific excitation of endogenous or exogenous tumor-selective fluorescent markers and subsequent optical measurement of the induced fluorescence signals. In the following review, the reader will be given a clear and extensive understanding of all aspects of these methods relevant for ENT specialists. Apart from a demonstration of the clinical difficulties in the diagnosis of malignant tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract, a historical synopsis of fluorescence diagnosis and an explanation of the biophysical basics, this publication focuses mainly on a detailed discussion of the current status of research and a critical consideration of the commercially available systems for fluorescence diagnosis in ENT oncology. The topic is rounded off by a short account of possible future activities in this field.
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Klinikum Großhadern, München. cbetz@life.med.uni-muenchen.de.|Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Klinik der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Klinikum Großhadern, Marchionistraße 15, 81366 , München. cbetz@life.med.uni-muenchen.de.
authors.forename: C S
authors.initials: CS
authors.lastname: Betz
authors.affiliation: Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Klinikum Großhadern, München.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Leunig
keywords: Autofluorescence; Fluorescence diagnosis; Head and neck cancer; Review