Presbylarynx: validation of a classification based on morphological characteristics

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Gerontology
• Speech Science

Background:

• Presbylarynx, characterized by age-related changes in the larynx, affects voice quality in the elderly.
• Accurate classification of these changes is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate a novel classification system for stratifying presbylarynx into three distinct types.
• To assess the reproducibility and reliability of this classification among otolaryngologists.

Main Methods:

• A total of 30 rigid laryngostroboscopy video recordings were evaluated.
• Twenty otolaryngologists (10 residents, 10 specialists) from five tertiary hospitals participated in the study.
• Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of the classification system were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The average intra-rater agreement rate was high at 0.847 (p < 0.001).
• Average inter-rater reliability was 0.67 ± 0.179 on the first evaluation and 0.691 ± 0.131 on the second.
• These results indicate good to excellent reproducibility for the proposed classification.

Conclusions:

• The validated classification effectively stratifies laryngeal endoscopic signs in elderly patients with presbyphonia.
• This classification is expected to enhance the diagnostic protocol for the aging voice.
• Improved documentation of treatment outcomes for presbylarynx conditions is anticipated.