COX II Expression in Laryngeal Lesions

ProblemOver expression of Cyclooxygenase II (COX II) is noted in a variety of inflammatory and neoplastic conditions, including laryngeal cancer. Although smoking is a known risk factor for laryngeal carcinoma, non-smokers are occasionally diagnosed. Possible etiologic factors include up regulation of COX II expression. This study compares COX II expression in benign, dysplastic and cancerous laryngeal tissue specimens in smokers and non-smokers.MethodsPathology specimens from consecutive patients who underwent excision of a laryngeal lesion for unrelated reasons from 2003 to 2006 were collected. Patients with severe laryngopharyngeal reflux were excluded. Patients’ smoking history was collected. Immunocytochemical studies were used to detect COX II expression. A blinded pathologist graded the intensity of COX II expression based on a visual analog scale. Statistical analysis was used to determine differences.Results49 samples from 22 smokers and 18 non-smokers were tested. COX II expression was significa...