The role of flexible autofluorescence laryngoscopy in the diagnosis of malignant lesions of the larynx.

CONCLUSION: Autofluorescent endoscopy (AFE) combined with microlaryngoscopy (MLS) gives a more accurate diagnosis of laryngeal pathology and can be further refined to minimize the need for MLS under general anaesthesia.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic potential and limitations of autofluorescent flexible laryngoscopy in comparison to MLS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: We examined 40 patients using the Pentax SAFE 1000 system. All patients then underwent direct MLS and biopsy under general anaesthesia. Biopsies were taken from areas that were visually suspicious and then from areas that showed disturbed autofluorescent signals.

RESULTS: The overall sensitivity of AFE for various pathologies was 90.625%, while the sensitivity of MLS was 75%. Combining the findings of AFL and MLS we had a 100% diagnostic yield.