Laryngitis (Larynx Inflammation): Diagnostic Tests

The diagnosis of laryngitis is first suspected based on the clinical presentation and then confirmed by laryngoscopy.

Optional medical device diagnostics-depending on the results of the history, physical examination, laboratory diagnostics, and obligatory medical device diagnostics-are used for differential diagnosis.

  • Laryngostroboscopy (laryngeal stroboscopy) – assessment of vocal fold function during phonation: regular stroboscopic examinations allow early detection of infiltrative vocal fold processes. Mucosal changes that infiltrate the vocal fold muscles lead to a stroboscopic (phonatory) arrest. If this stagnation persists for 2-3 weeks, the indication for microlaryngoscopic trial excision is given.
  • Computed tomography (CT; sectional imaging procedure (X-ray images from different directions with computer-based evaluation)) – for suspected laryngeal carcinoma (cancer of the larynx).
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neck – when laryngeal carcinoma (cancer of the larynx) is suspected.
  • Biopsy (tissue sampling) for histological (fine tissue) examination – if tumor is suspected.
  • X-ray of the thorax (X-ray thorax / chest), in two planes – if tuberculosis is suspected.