Randomized, controlled, multisite study of intracapsular tonsillectomy using low-temperature plasma excision.

Objective: To determine the efficacy of intracapsular tonsillectomy using low-temperature plasma excision for improving the quality of the postoperative experience and for treating obstructive symptoms through 12 months postoperatively.

Design: Prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind study.

Setting: Multiple private or institutional otolaryngology clinics.

Anthrax: ENT manifestations and current concepts.

In light of recent events, anthrax has once again taken center stage in the world of science and the world in which we live. Because patients with anthrax may initially present to otolaryngology clinics, it is important for the otolaryngologist to know how to diagnose and treat this entity. This article will present current information on epidemiology, microbiology, pathogenesis/clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment with a particular interest in the head and neck region.

Micrometastatic tumor detection in patients with head and neck cancer: a preliminary report.

Objective: To apply a new immunocytochemistry (ICC) assay to peripheral blood samples for micrometastatic circulating tumor cell detection in patients with head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC).

Design: The ICC assay uses established monoclonal antibodies that bind to tumor-associated antigens combined with an enrichment system that uses positive selection with anti-human epithelial antigen (EpCAM antibody) to detect circulating tumor cells.

Subjects: Eighteen consecutive patients newly diagnosed as having HNSCC are described.