Reflux as an etiological factor of carcinoma of the laryngopharynx.

This study examined charts and 16-mm pictures or videotapes of 138 patients with carcinoma of the larynx treated during the last 10 years. Among these patients, 19 were nonsmokers and nondrinkers or only light social drinkers with moderate to severe gastroesophageal reflux (GER). Serial cinephotographs are presented with follow-up of up to 10 years. The common presence of GER in these nonsmoking, nondrinking patients and the probable role of this chronic irritative disorder as a causative agent in carcinoma of the laryngopharynx are discussed.