Temple researchers identify genetic factors linked to acquired narrowing of the airway

(Temple University Health System) Endotracheal intubation and tracheotomy are widely used in the hospital setting for elective surgery and in cases of serious illness or critical injury. In rare instances the procedures result in the development of scarring and narrowing of the larynx and trachea, or acquired laryngotracheal stenosis (ALTS). Who is susceptible to ALTS -- and why -- is unclear, but according to new research at Temple's Lewis Katz School of Medicine, genetic and ethnic background may be underlying factors.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news