Assessment of Laryngopharyngeal Sensation: Cancer Survivor Cohort

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · Oct 5, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking to better understand how certain throat-related conditions affect cancer survivors, particularly those who have had radiation or other treatments for head and neck cancer. The study will include individuals with various laryngopharyngeal disorders, which can impact speaking and swallowing, such as vocal cord paralysis and other issues. By comparing these patients to healthy individuals, researchers hope to gain insights that could improve treatment and support for cancer survivors facing these challenges.

To be eligible for the trial, participants should be between 18 and 85 years old and either have a laryngopharyngeal disorder or be healthy controls without any throat issues. Participants will need to be able to understand and sign a consent form and follow the study's procedures. It's important to note that the trial is not currently recruiting participants yet, so interested individuals will need to wait for the study to begin. If you or someone you know has experienced throat problems after cancer treatment, this trial could offer valuable information and support for future care.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age \<=18 years.
• • 2. Individuals without a laryngopharyngeal disorder (health controls) or with a laryngopharyngeal disorder. Laryngopharyngeal disorder includes but is not limited to: presbylarynx, aspiration; spasmodic dysphonia; globus pharynges; vocal fold paralysis; iatrogenic injury to the larynx; muscle tension dysphonia; neurogenic dysphagia; laryngeal sensory neuropathy; and laryngopharyngeal disorders resulting from prior radiation therapy in individuals with a history of head and neck cancer who have completed radiation therapy as primary or adjuvant cancer treatment
• • 3. Ability and willingness to comply with study procedures.
• • 4. Ability to understand a written informed consent document, and the willingness to sign it.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Non-English speaking.
• • 2. Laryngopharyngeal structures are not accessible on exam.
• • 3. Known contraindication to any study-related procedure, or history of being unable to tolerate laryngoscopy.
• • 4. Vocal fold immobility or severe hypomobility on adduction.
• • 5. For head and neck cancer survivors only: Currently undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer (i.e., primary/adjuvant radiation therapy treatment plan is not yet completed).