Abstract
Objectives
Radiation-induced xerostomia is known to be a significant complication in head and neck cancer patients receiving radiation. As the larynx is endowed with a rich supply of glands, the survey of the secretory immunoglobulins as well as the glandular distribution in human larynx should provide a valuable baseline for understanding the immunological status of the larynx. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of radiation on the larynx in patients who received radiotherapy on the neck.
Methods
Laryngeal fluids or tissues were obtained from 111 human adults who received surgery or radiation therapy for hypopharyngeal or laryngeal cancer. From patients who had to undergo a total laryngectomy, the larynges were examined histopathologically. The change of the glandular distribution was measured using the image analyzing system. The levels of immunoglobulins, as well as the concentration of laryngeal glands, were compared between individuals with or without radiotherapy.
Results
The laryngeal secretion contained immunological factors such as secretory IgA. The level of SIgA fell to low levels in patients with previous radiation therapy. The glandular acini are often replaced with fibrous connective tissue. The density of the glands decreased and the ratio of serous-type glandular cells decreased.
Conclusions
These results indicate that not only the voice function, but also the local defense function of the larynx, might be impaired after radiotherapy.
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