Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Ortner, L.
The diagnostical approach of globus sensation: Results from a single institution survey
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] Medizinische Universität Graz; 2024. pp. 77
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- Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz:
- Betreuer*innen:
- Gugatschka Markus
- Hortobagyi David
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Introduction: Globus pharyngeus, a persistent sensation of a painless foreign body in the throat, drives numerous visits to otorhinolaryngology clinics. The condition's unclear etiology and connections to other ailments hinder the establishment of standardized investigation and treatment approaches. This study, conducted between 2014 and 2019 at the phoniatrics outpatient ward of the University Hospital of Graz, aimed to evaluate diagnostic pathways, findings, and follow-up for patients presenting with globus pharyngeus. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study collected epidemiological data, diagnostic and treatment pathways, and follow-up details for 211 patients identified through the local medical institute for statistics and the "openMEDOCS" database. Data analysis involved Microsoft Excel, using descriptive statistics while ensuring patient anonymity. Results: Among the 211 participants (40.8% male, 59.2% female; mean age 53.5), 79.6% reported chronic complaints. Active smokers accounted for 12.3%, and 26.1% had allergies. The primary complaint was a sensation of a foreign body (64.5%), while the main secondary complaint was burning associated with reflux (20.4%). Flexible laryngoscopy revealed findings in 31.3% of cases, with hyperplasia at the base of the tongue (12.8%) being the most prevalent. The primary recommended post-presentation examination was X-ray or CT/MRI of the neck (46.4%). Conclusion: The collected data were used in conjunction with the current body of research to develop a diagnostic algorithm. By considering potential risk factors (such as a positive smoking history) and warning symptoms, unnecessary examinations are intended to be reduced, thereby alleviating the suffering of patients and relieving the healthcare system as a whole.