Effect of airway dynamics on the development of larynx cancer

Abstract

NA. Laryngoscope, 126:1136-1142, 2016.

Short-term whole body cigarette smoke exposure induces regional differences in cellular response in the mouse larynx

“…This immediate response of the VF epithelium to CS may, in part, be explained by airflow dynamics. Some of the narrowest and widest regions of the upper and lower respiratory tracts are found within the larynx [ 9 , 15 ]. Specifically, narrowing of the glottic region creates a highly turbulent airflow, which promotes the immediate deposition of toxicants on the VF surface upon inhalation [ 9 , 89 ].…”

“…With respect to the subglottic region, our findings demonstrate that significant increases in cell proliferation in the submucosal glands begin later, on day 5, and extend to day 10 post-CSE. This region of the larynx has the highest air flow velocity, lower forces, and pressure; hence, having lesser contact with inhaled toxicants and reducing deposition [ 9 ]. Correspondingly in this study, cumulative CS inhalation for 5 and 10 days may have led to a gradual toxicant buildup in this region; consequently, triggering increased cellular proliferation.…”

“…Anatomically, the larynx can be divided into three regions: supraglottis, glottis (i.e., vocal folds), and subglottis. The surfaces of the larynx, particularly the glottic area, are susceptible sites for deposition of the inhaled toxicants associated with CS [ 8 , 9 ]. Inhalation of CS is the primary risk factor for the development of glottic cancer [ 10 ].…”

Airway Resistance and Respiratory Distress in Laryngeal Cancer: A Computational Fluid Dynamics Study

“…With respect to the larynx, some previous work has experimentally validated methods of approximating flow through a healthy glottis using calculated coefficients 25,26 . Other laryngeal analysis has been able to demonstrate a correlation between regions of higher fluid pressure and regions prone to developing cancer 27 . Computational models are another experimentally validated approach, 28 and indeed, CFD analysis lends itself well to the larynx and trachea given their relatively rigid boundaries and complex geometry, particularly when pathology is present.…”

“…25,26 Other laryngeal analysis has been able to demonstrate a correlation between regions of higher fluid pressure and regions prone to developing cancer. 27 Computational models are another experimentally validated approach, 28 and indeed, CFD analysis lends itself well to the larynx and trachea given their relatively rigid boundaries and complex geometry, particularly when pathology is present. From this, a series of clinically oriented studies have evaluated fluid flow with CFDs in subglottic stenosis [29][30][31][32] and vocal cord immobility.…”