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

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.