Age related epithelial changes of the larynx

ABSTRACT

One hundred larynges of non smokers of different ages were examined by Alcian blue-Ploxine stain and by light microscopy to detect changes in the type and distribution of the covering epithelium. Squamous metaplasia was found in 77% of the larynges. It was found on the epiglottis in 71% of cases, on the vestibular folds in 59% of cases and on the subglottis in 54%. No dysplastic changes were detected in the metaplastic areas. There was a tendency of greater increase in the incidence of metaplasia in males more than females. Also, the surface area of squamous metaplasia was found to increase with age in both sexes. It was found that the surface areas of supraglottis and subglottis were larger in males than females. With increasing age, the surface area increased in males and decreased in females