Laryngoscopy-based scoring system for the diagnosis of vocal fold leukoplakia

Abstract Objective To propose a scoring system based on laryngoscopic characteristics for the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant vocal fold leukoplakia. Methods Laryngoscopic images from 200 vocal fold leukoplakia cases were retrospectively analysed. The laryngoscopic signs of benign and malignant vocal fold leukoplakia were compared, and statistically significant features were assigned and accumulated to establish the leukoplakia finding score. Results A total of five indicators associated with malignant vocal fold leukoplakia were included to construct the leukoplakia finding score, with a possible range of 0–10 points. A score of 6 points or more was indicative of a diagnosis of malignant vocal fold leukoplakia. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy values of the leukoplakia finding score were 93.8 per cent, 83.6 per cent and 86.0 per cent, respectively. The consistency in the leukoplakia finding score obtained by different laryngologists was strong (kappa = 0.809). Conclusion This scoring system based on laryngoscopic characteristics has high diagnostic value for distinguishing benign and malignant vocal fold leukoplakia.