Clinical presentation, assessment, and management of inducible laryngeal obstruction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Many aspects of inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) are still poorly understood. However, in recent years there have been advances made and an international consensus has achieved a standardized taxonomy. This review will synthesize recent research; specifically, relating to clinical presentation, assessment, and therapeutic interventions.

RECENT FINDINGS: The evidence base is growing but still limited for ILO and mostly comprises retrospective reviews, case studies, and anecdotal reports. The proposed relationship between ILO and other manifestations of laryngeal dysfunction via laryngeal hypersensitivity and hyperresponsiveness warrants further investigation. Progress has been made with guidelines published on laryngoscopy reporting procedures and validated symptom questionnaires produced for clinical use, although diagnostic algorithms are yet to be established. Emerging conservative and surgical interventions show promise, although as yet there are no randomized controlled trials investigating treatment efficacy.

SUMMARY: The field is in an embryonic state and key research priorities, acknowledged in the current literature, need to be addressed to positively impact patient care.