Otolaryngology

https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/american-journal-of-otolaryngology/articles-in-press 

Research articleAbstract only
Comparison of the effects of the temperature of intratympanic dexamethasone injections on vertigo
Nurdoğan Ata, Kayhan Öztürk, Bahri Gezgin
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 20 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Objective
This study aimed to compare if vertigo improved in patients when the dexamethasone used in the intratympanic (IT) injection was applied at body temperature or at room temperature.

Methods
The study included 54 patients who had undergone intratympanic treatment due to sudden hearing loss and tinnitus. The IT injection was administered to all patients, 2 times with 1-day intervals. Two different IT injection techniques were used for each patient: injecting dexamethasone at room temperature and injecting it at body temperature. Patients were asked to report the vertigo they felt immediately, and at 15 min after the injection using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and the four-point categorical rating scale (CRS-4).

Results
The level of vertigo immediately after injection was lower when the dexamethasone was injected at body temperature rather that at room temperature for both the VAS and CRS-4 (p < 0.05). However, no statistical differences in the VAS and CRS-4 self-report values between the two methods were found 15 min after the injection (p > 0.05).

Conclusion
Vertigo due to IT decreases within minutes. When the IT drugs are administered at body temperature, temporal vertigo due to injection is lower than when they are administered at room temperature.

select article Craniofacial injuries related to motorized scooter use: A rising epidemic
Research articleAbstract only
Craniofacial injuries related to motorized scooter use: A rising epidemic
Amishav Bresler, Curtis Hanba, Peter Svider, Michael A. Carron, ... Boris Paskhover
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 20 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Over the last decade, there has been increased interest in utilizing motorized scooters for transportation. The limited regulation of this modernized vehicle raises numerous safety concerns. This analysis examines a national database to describe the yearly incidence of craniofacial injuries and patterns of injury related to motorized scooter use.

Methods
The Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Electronic Injury Surveillance system was queried for craniofacial injuries associated with motorized scooter use. Patient demographics, injury type, anatomic location, injury pattern, and helmet status were extracted for analysis.

Results
From 2008 to 2017, there were 990 recorded events for craniofacial injuries secondary to motorized scooters extrapolating to an estimated 32,001 emergency department (ED) visits. The annual incidence was noted to triple over that 10-year period. The majority of patients were male (62.1%) and the common age groups at presentation were young children 6–12 years old (33.3%), adolescents 13–18 years old (16.1%) and young adults 19–40 years old (18.0%). The most common injury pattern was a closed head injury (36.1%) followed by lacerations (20.5%). Facial fractures were only present in 5.2% of cases. In cases in which helmet use was recorded, 66% of the patients were not helmeted.

Conclusion
The incidence of motorized scooter related craniofacial trauma is rising, resulting in thousands of ED visits annually. Many patients are experiencing morbid traumatic injuries and may not be wearing appropriate protective equipment. This study highlights the importance of public awareness and policy to improve safety and primarily prevent craniofacial trauma.

select article Buteyko breathing technique for obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction: Preliminary results from a randomized controlled trial
Research articleAbstract only
Buteyko breathing technique for obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction: Preliminary results from a randomized controlled trial
Haicang Zeng, Xiaoxin Chen, Yaodong Xu, Yiqing Zheng, Hao Xiong
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 17 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To assess the effectiveness of Buteyko breathing technique in patients with obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).

Materials and methods
Fifty-one patients (77 ears) aged between 21 and 62 years were randomized to Buteyko breathing in conjunction with medical management (nasal steroid) group or medical management alone group. The Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Questionnaire (ETDQ-7) symptom scores, tympanogram, positive Valsalva maneuver were evaluated at baseline, 6-week and 12-week follow-up.

Results
Normalization of ETDQ-7 symptom scores at 6-week follow-up was observed in 30.0% (12/40) of the Buteyko breathing group versus 16.2% (6/37) of the controls (P > 0.05). At 12-week follow-up, the ratio rose to 50.0% (20/40) in the Buteyko breathing group and 24.3% (9/37) in the controls (P < 0.05). Tympanogram normalization at 12-week follow-up was observed in 53.6% (15/28) of the Buteyko breathing group versus 26.9% (7/26) of the controls (P < 0.05). The Buteyko breathing group showed slight improvement in positive Valsalva maneuver at 6- and 12-week follow-up (P > 0.05).

Conclusions
Our study shows that Buteyko breathing technique might be an effective adjunctive intervention in treatment of obstructive ETD, especially for those patients who are refractory to medical treatment and cannot afford Eustachian tube balloon dilation surgery.

select article Commentary on Surgical management of patients with Eagle syndrome
CorrespondenceNo access
Commentary on Surgical management of patients with Eagle syndrome
Zhengcai- Lou
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 17 May 2019
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select article Prognostic factors and survival for malignant conjunctival melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma over four decades
Research articleAbstract only
Prognostic factors and survival for malignant conjunctival melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma over four decades
Nicholas B. Abt, Jiawei Zhao, Yuru Huang, Allen O. Eghrari
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To determine the epidemiology and survival of primary conjunctival malignant neoplasms.

Methods
Retrospective analysis of primary malignant conjunctival neoplasms using Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 1973 to 2012.

Results
Of 1661 cases, the most common neoplasms are squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) at 54.8% and melanoma at 38.8%. Mean diagnostic age for melanoma was 62.1 compared to 65.5 years for SCC (p = 0.002). 52.2% of melanoma are male versus 77.4% of SCC (p < 0.001). For SCC only age (HR: 1.09, 95% CI:1.04–1.14) is a predictor of survival. For melanoma, age (HR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.05–1.10), male sex (HR: 2.04, 95% CI: 1.16–3.60), T4 tumors (HR: 3.38, 95% CI: 1.17–9.80) and N1 status (HR: 8.69, 95% CI: 2.75–27.42) are all survival predictors. The 5 and 10-year overall survival (OS) estimates are not significantly different between SCC and melanoma, with 70% and 50% respectively for SCC, and 71% and 50% respectively for melanoma. Median survival time is worse for blacks (52 months) compared to whites (118 months) and Asians/Native Americans/Pacific Islanders (145 months), however race was not found to be a significant prognostic factor in multivariate analysis. Five-year survival are similar between decades 1973–1982 (66.2%), 1983–1992 (69.2%), 1993–2002 (71.3%) and 2003–2012 (70.2%).

Conclusion
Age at diagnosis is a determinant of survival for both conjunctival SCC and melanoma. Male sex, T4 and N1 staging are also important prognostic factors for melanoma. With respect to overall survival, SCC and melanoma did not differ significantly.

select article Barometric pressure and the incidence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Research articleAbstract only
Barometric pressure and the incidence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Jonathan Korpon, Roy Sabo, Daniel H. Coelho
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
To investigate the relationship between barometric pressure and the incidence of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Methods
181 patients diagnosed with classic BPPV seen between 2011 and 2016 were identified. Demographic information, data of onset, and date of presentation were recorded. Historical barometric data for each of the 60 months were recorded. In addition, monthly counts of other atmospheric, infectious, and allergic variables for that time period were recorded. Correlation analysis compared monthly incidence of BPPV with absolute and relative changes in atmospheric conditions.

Results
The incidence of BPPV onset demonstrated a statistically significant positive correlation with barometric pressure, where every one-unit increase in barometric pressure leads to an expected increase of 6.1 diagnoses (p = 0.0008). The correlation coefficient (r) between barometric pressure and BPPV diagnoses was 0.66 (95% CI 0.14–0.90) with a p-value of 0.0131. Other seasonal variables demonstrated correlation, though none as strong as barometric pressure.

Conclusions
Barometric pressure has been long been associated with conditions of the inner ear, though its relationship to the pathogenesis of BPPV has not been investigated. Monthly changes in barometric pressure, rather than the absolute value, may be responsible for the observed changes in incidence. These findings demonstrate a clear association between barometric pressure and BPPV that may help to explain both the etiology of BPPV and its possible connection to migraine-related conditions.

select article Thermal injury to common operating room materials by fiber optic light sources and endoscopes
Research articleAbstract only
Thermal injury to common operating room materials by fiber optic light sources and endoscopes
Earl Harley, Raluca Tavaluc, Navin Prasad
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To determine the thermal energy damage potential by heat sources, such as endoscopes and fiber optic light cables, in contact with materials commonly placed around an operating room (OR) table.

Materials and method
Injury by xenon and halogen light sources were tested by direct and indirect contact using fiber optic light bundle cables and scopes at light intensities between ranging from Standby to 100%. The scopes had diameters ranging from 2.7 mm to 10 mm and were set at varying angles. The materials tested were surgical drapes, cotton towels, child shirts, child pants, lap sponges, X-ray detectable sponges, and Mayo covers. The damage potential was determined qualitatively by presence of smoking or smell of burning.

Results
Permutations involving direct contact were able to cause thermal injury, while permutations involving indirect contact, endoscopes, or halogen lamp were not. The xenon light source with the fiber optic light cable created thermal injury at light intensities of 50%, 75%, and 100%. Time to injury increased as light intensity was decreased. Only the surgical drape, child shorts, and cotton towel showed evidence of burn injury.

Conclusions
This report supports the potential for thermal injury to the patient secondary to fiber optic light sources, although this potential may be limited in extent. The injury risk can be reduced by avoiding direct contact to materials overlying the patient, confirming standby mode or 25% light intensity, and maintaining the endoscope connected to the fiber optic cable at all times.

select article 3D-real IR MRI of Meniere's disease with partial endolymphatic hydrops
Research articleAbstract only
3D-real IR MRI of Meniere's disease with partial endolymphatic hydrops
Suming Shi, Feng Zhou, Wuqing Wang
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
A three-dimensional inversion-recovery sequence with real reconstruction (3D-real IR) sequence 4 h after intravenous gadolinium injection (IV) has been used to visualize the endolymphatic hydrops (ELH) in Meniere's disease (MD). This study was designed to explore the pathology of MD with partial ELH.

Methods
We collected 338 patients with definite MD, all of whom underwent the IV method. Patients who were found to have partial ELH (vestibular or cochlear) were enrolled. The hearing thresholds of the enrolled patients were analyzed, the regions of interest of the cochlear perilymph and the cerebellum white matter were determined, and the signal intensity ratio in the former to the latter (CC ratio) for both sides in the patients was subsequently evaluated.

Results
Of the 338 collected patients with definite MD, 19 patients (5.6%) had unilateral vestibular ELH (N = 18) or cochlear ELH (N = 1), and 4 patients (1.2%) with bilateral ELH had contralateral cochlear ELH. The CC ratio of the affected side (1.44 ± 0.46) was higher than that of the unaffected side (1.15 ± 0.33, P < 0.05) in the 19 patients with unilateral ELH. Conversely, there was no difference between the ratio of the contralateral side (1.18 ± 0.16) and the unaffected side (P > 0.05) in the 4 patients with bilateral ELH.

Conclusions
Partial vestibular ELH was more common than partial cochlear ELH in MD. Moreover, vestibular ELH, rather than cochlear ELH, may correlate with the elevated contrast effect in the affected side, which may better reflect the pathologic mechanism of MD.

select article Plunging ranula with lingual nerve tether: Case report and literature review
Case reportAbstract only
Plunging ranula with lingual nerve tether: Case report and literature review
Krish Suresh, Allen L. Feng, Mark A. Varvares
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Plunging ranulas are most often treated surgically; various surgical approaches may be necessary depending on the unique characteristics of each case. Here, we present the case of a plunging ranula noted on imaging to have a cordlike tether, which was revealed intraoperatively to be the lingual nerve. This case illustrates the importance of preoperative imaging for surgical planning, and when a transcervical approach may be the best choice for plunging ranulas.

select article Teaching nasal analysis to otolaryngology residents
Research articleAbstract only
Teaching nasal analysis to otolaryngology residents
Katie Geelan-Hansen, Douglas Farquhar, Gita Fleischman, J. Madison Clark, William W. Shockley
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
This prospective cohort study was completed to evaluate a systematic approach for teaching nasal analysis to otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residents.

Methods
Residents from each post graduate year (PGY) were randomized to the control group or study group. Residents in the study group were given a 10-slide PowerPoint (Microsoft Corp) instruction on nasal analysis using the standard sequence of photographs and anatomic elements to describe in each view. All residents were given the standard sequence of photographs of 3 patients for assessment on nasal analysis. Then 12–14 weeks later all residents were re-evaluated using photographs of 3 new patients. The results were blinded and graded using an 18 point scale modified from a previous publication [1].

Results
Twenty otolaryngology-head and neck surgery residents completed the study. Analysis was performed with and without multivariate regression modeling to adjust for PGY, gender, and number of rhinoplasties performed. The study group had overall higher scores in both the initial and follow up assessment, specifically with subsite-specific dorsal deviation, tip projection, and nostril symmetry. Neither group obtained high scores in facial symmetry, skin thickness, tip shape and contour, and radix position at initial or re-assessment.

Conclusion
Nasal analysis is a complex task. A lecture on a systemic approach to facial analysis given to a group of residents, who performed significantly better on facial analysis cases than controls. Further research in providing feedback, periods of rehearsal or testing, or focused selected elements with serial exposure can be considered.

select article The prognostic effect of anatomic subsite in HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Research articleAbstract only
The prognostic effect of anatomic subsite in HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Tristan Tham, Michael Wotman, Ansley Roche, Dennis Kraus, Peter Costantino
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 15 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Background
Since most HPV-associated disease occurs in the tonsillar-related areas (TRA) – palatine and lingual tonsils, the effect of HPV on survival in non-tonsillar oropharyngeal subsites (nTRA) is not well established. The objective of this study was to use a large population-based cohort to investigate the survival impact of HPV in nTRA subsites versus TRA subsites.

Methods
This SEER database study was conducted by stratifying the HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancer cohort into two primary groups, TRA and nTRA.

Results
HPV-positive squamous cell cancer was significantly more common in TRAs (73%) compared to nTRAs (31.2%, p < 0.001). After controlling for age, treatment, stage, race, and income, patients with HPV-positive disease in nTRAs had a worse cause-specific survival (CSS) than individuals with HPV-positive disease in TRAs (HR = 2.16, 95% CI 1.20–3.86, p = 0.01).

Conclusion
Patients with HPV-positive OPSCC in nTRAs had poorer survival outcomes compared to patients with HPV-positive OPSCC in TRAs.

select article Post-operative epiphora following the transcutaneous medial canthal incision
Research articleAbstract only
Post-operative epiphora following the transcutaneous medial canthal incision
Mark A. Prendes, John Mittel, Peter J. Timoney, Christopher J. Compton, ... H.B. Harold Lee
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The safety profile of the transcutaneous medial canthal incision for access to the medial orbit is assessed with a focus on the risk of post-operative iatrogenic epiphora.

Methods
A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing medial orbitotomy via the transcutaneous medial canthal incision was performed. Patients with a minimum of 3 months of follow-up were included and post-operative complications were assessed and characterized.

Results
One-hundred-fifty patients were included in the study. A total of 4 complications were identified, including one each of the following: nasolacrimal duct obstruction, hypertrophic scar, suture granuloma and soft tissue infection. Only the nasolacrimal duct obstruction required surgical intervention.

Discussion
Access to the medial orbit has been achieved through a variety of approaches, each with their own benefits and risk profile. The transcaruncular approach has increased in usage as a means to avoid a visible cutaneous scar and decrease the risk of iatrogenic epiphora, however, there are specific patients who may have relative contraindications to this approach. The current study demonstrates the low risk profile of the transcutaneous medial canthal incision, specifically the minimal risk of iatrogenic damage to the nasolacrimal outflow system. This approach is another useful tool which orbit surgeons should be familiar with to offer as an option to patients requiring medial orbitotomy.

select article Efficacy analysis of medical and surgical treatments in chronic kidney disease patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism
Research articleAbstract only
Efficacy analysis of medical and surgical treatments in chronic kidney disease patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism
Yajing Huang, Hao Wu, Yaqun Wu, Zhiyong Luo
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To investigate the effects of surgical and medical treatments on chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT).

Materials and methods
A total of 198 CKD patients with SHPT were identified at Tongji Hospital from January 2013 to June 2017.

Results
Surgical group (53 patients) received maintenance dialysis for 78.0 ± 4.9 months, while medical group (84 patients) for 62.0 ± 6.4 months. The serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) in surgical group reduced apparently compared with medical group (P = 0.015) and maintained satisfied result during three years of follow-up (67.4 ± 7.4 pg/ml). The recurrence rate in surgical group was 7.5% and in medical group was 15.5% (P = 0.024). Beyond that, 5 (5.9%) patients suffered persistent hyperparathyroidism in medical group.

Conclusion
Although the progress of medical treatment is changing rapidly, surgical treatment is still an effective way to control serum iPTH and calcium chronically for SHPT patients. Complex SHPT patients can also receive satisfied effect by surgical treatment, without apparently increasing the risk of complications.

select article The case of the eyelid silicone granulomas
Case reportAbstract only
The case of the eyelid silicone granulomas
Jacqueline A. Wulu, Laura Garcia-Rodriguez, Andrey Prilutskiy, Jeffrey Spiegel
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Foreign body granulomas can develop even several years after autologous fat or filler injection. In some instances the foreign body granulomas have been found at sites other than the original injection site. We present a case of a 48-year-old male with reported "hyaluronic acid fillers" injected into his upper and lower eyelids several years prior. He subsequently developed periorbital swelling with negative allergic and rheumatologic workup. The patient ultimately underwent a blepharoplasty for improvement of the swelling. Histopathology suggested silicone granulomas of the upper and lower eyelid. This case illustrates the importance of keeping foreign body granulomas on the differential for all patients with a history of facial dermal filler injections. Although hyaluronic acid is the most common dermal filler, providers should suspect the use of other dermal fillers including those not FDA approved particularly when common conservative treatment methods are not sufficient.

select article Herpes simplex virus of the nose masquerading as invasive fungal sinusitis: A pediatric case series
Case reportAbstract only
Herpes simplex virus of the nose masquerading as invasive fungal sinusitis: A pediatric case series
Neha A. Patel, Rachel Kessel, Gerald Zahtz
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
The management of invasive fungal sinusitis differs greatly from the management of herpes simplex virus (HSV) of the nose in immunocompromised patients. However, the diagnosis may be uncertain and a delay in treatment can lead to mortality. Here we describe the successful medical management of a series of immunocompromised pediatric patients with HSV lesions of the nose with the initial concern for invasive fungal sinusitis. The diagnosis of HSV herpes was supported by positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of the nasal lesion. To our knowledge, these are the first cases described in the pediatric literature, emphasizing the need to include this entity on the differential.

select article Heterogeneity in the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment initiation of p16-positive oropharyngeal cancer
Research articleAbstract only
Heterogeneity in the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment initiation of p16-positive oropharyngeal cancer
Anish Raman, Neilayan Sen, Ethan Ritz, Mary Jo Fidler, ... Samer Al-khudari
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Background
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) has a patient demographic, presentation, and clinical treatment response distinct from HPV-unassociated OPSCC. The heterogeneity in presentation and diagnosis within a patient population with HPV-positive OPSCC and its impact on times to presentation, diagnosis, and treatment have yet to be characterized.

Participants
Patients with biopsy-proven p16-positive OPSCC seen and/or treated at our institution between 2008 and 2018. Of 136 patients with OPSCC seen and/or treated at our institution, 101 met criteria for inclusion.

Methods
Patients were grouped by several parameters including presenting symptom category (asymptomatic neck mass, neck mass with primary-site symptoms, or primary-site symptoms without a neck mass), p16 status on fine-needle aspiration (FNA), and date of presentation. Median time intervals between presentation to imaging, biopsy, and treatment were compared within each parameter using the Kruskal-Wallis test with a significance level of 0.05.

Results
Sixty-five of the 101 study patients presented with a neck mass. Patients without a neck mass had a longer interval from presentation to imaging than patients with a neck mass (median 4 vs 0 days, p = 0.025). Initial FNA obtained on 61 patients was positive for p16 in 19 patients. Unknown or negative p16 status on FNA was associated with shorter intervals from initial imaging to treatment initiation (39 vs 46.5 days, p = 0.045). Patients presenting in the final three years had a longer interval from presentation to treatment initiation (55 vs 41 days, p = 0.024).

Conclusion
A neck mass is absent from the clinical picture of a substantial proportion of HPV-associated OPSCC patients. Primary-site symptom category and regional metastasis were not associated with differences in times to diagnosis or treatment initiation at this major referral center. The increased awareness and complexity of treatment decisions related to OPSCC may contribute to the delays in treatment initiation observed in patients with p16-positive FNAs and those who presented in more recent years.

select article Impact of metabolic syndrome on recovery of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Research articleAbstract only
Impact of metabolic syndrome on recovery of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Yilong Zhou, Shuyao Qiu, Dabo Liu
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was reported to a risk factor of developing idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL), but limited data exist on its effect on the recovery.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of (MetS) and its components on recovery of patients with ISSNHL.

Material and methods
228 ISSNHL patients were divided into MetS group and Non-MetS group according to the diagnostic criteria of MetS, and demographic and clinical characteristics and hearing recovery were reviewed between two groups.

Results
In total, 86 (37.7%) patients in MetS group, and 142 (62.3%) patients in Non-MetS group. The rate of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, low HDL-C, high TG and obesity were significantly higher in the MetS group than those in the Non-MetS group (P < 0.05). The complete recovery rate and partial recovery rate were significantly lower in the MetS group than those in the Non-MetS group. According to the multivariate analysis, MetS was significantly associated with a poor prognosis; high initial hearing threshold and presence of diabetes mellitus were correlated with a poor prognosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions
These results suggest that MetS has a negative impact on the hearing recovery of ISSNHL. High initial hearing threshold and diabetes mellitus were indictors of a poor prognosis of ISSNHL.

select article Impact of habitual marijuana and tobacco smoke on severity of chronic rhinosinusitis
Research articleAbstract only
Impact of habitual marijuana and tobacco smoke on severity of chronic rhinosinusitis
Osama G. Abdel-Naby Awad
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 14 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Health concerns around cannabis (marijuana) use have focused on the possible relationship with psychosis and lower airway health, however; the effect of cannabis smoking on upper airway health has received less attention. The aim of this study is to investigate difference between exclusive tobacco cigarettes smoking compared with tobacco plus cannabis smoking regarding severity of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Material and methods
A prospective cross-sectional study with two groups of CRS patients recruited (Group 1: tobacco cigarettes smokers; 100 patients and group 2: tobacco cigarettes smokers and also cannabis users; 100 patients). Recruitment occurred in a general practice in Egypt. Cannabis use was recorded by self-report. Severity of CRS was assessed and compared between 2 groups using SNOT-20 questionnaire, Lund-Mackay CT score and Lund-Kennedy (LK) endoscopy Score.

Results
Group 2 patients (tobacco plus cannabis smokers) had significantly higher mean of assessment cores (SNOT-20 (P = 0.005), Lund-Mackay CT score (P = 0.006) and Lund-Kennedy (LK) endoscopy Score (P = 0.005)). Group 2 patients also had significantly higher mean of facial pain/pressure, difficulty sleep, and wake at night, lack of sleep, wake up tired, fatigue, reduced productivity, reduced concentration, frustration/restless/irritable, sad and embarrassed compared to patients in group 1.

Conclusion
Adult patients who smoked tobacco cigarettes plus cannabis mixed with tobacco had greater health related quality of life burden and more severe CRS compared to patients who smoked tobacco cigarettes only.

select article Aberrant expressed long non-coding RNAs in laryngeal squamous-cell carcinoma
Research articleAbstract only
Aberrant expressed long non-coding RNAs in laryngeal squamous-cell carcinoma
Hu Li, Fu-Ling Wang, Wei Li, Yong-Hua Fei, ... Mei Zhang
In Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available online 9 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Laryngeal squamous-cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the second most common malignant tumor of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The study was aimed to identify key long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) biomarkers for LSCC.

Methods
Differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and mRNAs (DEmRNAs) between LSCC and adjacent tissues were obtained based on The Cancer Genome Atlas. DElncRNA-DEmRNAs co-expression and DElncRNA-nearby-target DEmRNA interaction networks were constructed. Receiver operating characteristic and survival analysis were performed. A published dataset were as used to validate the result of bioinformatics analysis.

Results
We obtained 1103 DEmRNAs and 306 DElncRNAs between LSCC and adjacent tissues. A total of 338 DElncRNA-DEmRNA co-expression pairs and 229 DElncRNA-nearby-target DEmRNA pairs were obtained. Ten DElncRNAs and six DEmRNAs has great diagnostic value for LSCC. HOXB9 has potential prognostic value for LSCC. The results of GSE84957 validation were generally consistent with our results.

Conclusion
Our study provided clues for understanding the mechanism and developing potential biomarkers for LSCC.

select article Impact of payer status on survival in parotid malignancy
Research articleAbstract only
Impact of payer status on survival in parotid malignancy
Vanessa C. Stubbs, Karthik Rajasekaran, Jinbo Chen, Steven B. Cannady, ... Jason G. Newman
In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 9 May 2019
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Abstract
Abstract
Objective
In the setting of current national healthcare reform, it becomes especially relevant to understand the current state of healthcare disparities with regards to insurance status. To determine the impact of payer status on survival in parotid malignancy, we utilized the National Cancer Database (NCDB).

Study design
Retrospective database review.

Setting
National Cancer Database (2004–2012).

Subjects and methods
The NCDB was queried for cases of primary malignancy of the parotid gland between 2004 and 2012. The impact of payer status on overall survival was evaluated, as well as the relationship of insurance status with patient and tumor variables.

Results
15,815 cases met inclusion criteria. A majority had private insurance (47.8%), followed by Medicare (40.9%), Medicaid (5.0%), uninsured (3.2%) and other government sources (1.3%). Medicare patients had the lowest 5 and 10-year survival rates (50.7% (95% CI [49.3–52.1]) and 27.8% (95% CI [25.0–30.9]), respectively). On multivariable analysis, uninsured, Medicare, and Medicaid patients had worse overall survival than the privately insured (HR 1.42, 95% CI [1.17–1.74]; HR 1.29, 95% CI [1.17–1.42]; HR 1.36, 95% CI [1.13–1.62], respectively). Uninsured and Medicaid patients were more likely than the privately insured to present with advanced stage disease, nodal metastasis and longer times to treatment following diagnosis.

Conclusion
In parotid malignancy, uninsured, Medicaid, and Medicare patients have worse survival outcomes compared to those with private insurance. Uninsured and Medicaid patients also present with more advanced stage disease and have increased wait times before definitive treatment is initiated.

 

Alexandros Sfakianakis
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alsfakia@gmail.com