Carcinoma of the larynx: predictors of diagnostic delay

In tumors of the upper aerodigestive tract a dose-response relationship between tumor stage and its prognosis raises the chance of a reduction in the diagnostic delay. The interval between the first symptom and the start of tumor-specific therapy and the influencing factors is not well known. The goals of this study were to investigate the diagnostic delay and the influencing factors and to predict the factors that prolong the diagnostic process.

Prospective, nonrandomized study.

The intervals between first symptom and first consultation of a physician (patient delay) and between first consultation and first tumor-specific therapy (doctor delay) were investigated. Predictors for increased patient or doctor delay were evaluated, and a multiple logistic regression model for increased doctor delay was developed.

The total diagnostic delay (sum of patient and doctor delays) was 3 to 4 months. A multifactorial model for the ratio of odds revealed that for women and glottic cancers (1.73) the chance was twice as high for a doctor delay greater than 30 days, whereas subjects with an increased patient delay (>30 d) had reduced odds of being delayed by the physician.

The higher chance of extended doctor delay for glottic tumors compared with supraglottic tumors should be reflected in differential therapeutic strategies. Even unspecific lesions of the vocal folds should be followed up at the end of the therapy, at least. Therapies of glottic lesions without final control have the chance of resulting in delays in treatment. Women, especially, should be included in a follow-up examination. On the other hand, patients with increased patient delay have lower odds of longer doctor delay, which may be the result of tumor growth and, consequently, easier diagnosis.