The Typical Laryngeal Endoscopy Appearance in Reflux Laryngitis

A condition whereby there is an inflammation of the laryngeal and pharyngeal mucosa caused by acids derived from the stomach is called the laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPR) or so-called reflux laryngitis. Because it can also occur in upright position and silently without the typical symptoms of reflux oesophagitis like epigastric pain, heartburn or waterbrash (sudden sour taste in the throat), it differs from gastroesophageal reflux. A feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation), frequent throat irritations with throat clearing acts and unexplained coughs are its typical symptoms. Voice change can occur in fluctuating manners. If undiagnosed over prolonged period, rarely it can result in subglottic stenosis. A recognition its clinical appearance on laryngeal examination is important. In this video we can see a 70 degrees endoscopic finding of the larynx in a patient with reflux laryngitis. There is an inflammation of arytenoids mucosa and its oedema. Its posterior surface and the interarytenoids were hyperplastic giving the corrugated appearance. Also early vocal fold nodules were there. The subglottic region was normal. The proton-pump inhibitor medications and speech therapy sessions were given to the patient.