Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with laryngeal cancer treated in the emergency department of a tertiary care center
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Abstract
Introduction:
Laryngeal cancer is an oncological condition of relevance in otorhinolaryngology emergency settings due to its potential to compromise the airway and its associated functional consequences. In low- and middle-income countries, it continues to be diagnosed at advanced stages, limiting therapeutic options and worsening prognosis. In this context, emergency departments may represent a key point in the care pathway and play a key role in diagnosis, facilitating timely treatment that may impact the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.
Objective:
Describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients diagnosed with laryngeal cancer in the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital in southwestern Colombia.
Methods:
Observational, descriptive, and retrospective study. Patients evaluated in the emergency department by the ENT service with a diagnosis of laryngeal cancer between January 2020 and October 2024 were included. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were collected, including presenting symptoms, tumor stage according to the TNM classification, initial management, and vital status. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
Patients with laryngeal cancer were identified, mainly older males. Most patients were admitted without a previous diagnosis, presenting symptoms of upper airway obstruction and advanced-stage disease at the time of diagnosis. In a considerable proportion of cases, the initial intervention required was surgical airway management. In-hospital mortality was observed in a notable subset of patients.
Discussion and Conclusions:
Laryngeal cancer continues to be diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to urgent therapeutic decision-making. Strengthening early detection, timely referral, and care pathways is essential to improve clinical outcomes.
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Este artículo es publicado por la Revista Acta de Otorrinolaringología & Cirugía de Cabeza y Cuello.
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eISSN: 2539-0856
ISSN: 0120-8411
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