Laryngeal Inflammation

Objective: To provide a synopsis of the various types, causes, and treatments of laryngeal inflammatory conditions. Data Sources: Information contained within this paper was derived from the scientific literature and the clinical experiences of the authors. The data gathered were reinforced by the clinical and research experiences of the authors. Review Methods: The Medline (PubMed) and Cochrane Library databases of references and abstracts were consulted for scientific information on types, causes, and treatments of laryngeal inflammation. Conclusions: The classification of laryngitis can be divided into acute and chronic forms with a multiplicity of underlying behavioral and organic causes. These pathogenic variables are discussed, including the insidious laryngeal effects of voice abuses, infectious processes, systemic diseases, reflux disorders, various medications, and allergies. An algorithm of alternative treatments for laryngeal inflammatory conditions is presented.