Definition of a coordinate system for multi-modal images of the temporal bone and inner ear.

Purpose: The position and orientation of the head is maintained to be relatively similar during the CT / MR imaging process. However, the position / orientation dissimilarities present in the resulting images between patients, or between different scans of the same patient, do not allow for direct comparison of the images themselves or features / metrics extracted from them. This paper introduces a method of defining a coordinate system which is consistent between patients and modalities (CT and MR) for images of the temporal bone, using easily identifiable landmarks within the semicircular canals.

Comment on Chatwin et al. Waves of Precision: A Practical Guide for Reviewing New Tools to Evaluate Mechanical In-Exsufflation Efficacy in Neuromuscular Disorders. 2024, , 2643.

We read with interest the paper published by Chatwin et al [...

Clinical Characteristics and Impact of Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction in the UK National Registry.

Background: Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) describes inappropriate laryngeal closure during respiration, with airflow obstruction occurring at the glottic and/or supraglottic level, leading to breathlessness.

Objective: There is a paucity of data describing the demographics and impact of ILO. We aimed to report the clinical and demographic features of ILO in individuals entered prospectively in the UK national ILO registry.

UK consensus statement on the diagnosis of inducible laryngeal obstruction in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, laryngoscopy was the mandatory gold standard for the accurate assessment and diagnosis of inducible laryngeal obstruction. However, upper airway endoscopy is considered an aerosol-generating procedure in professional guidelines, meaning routine procedures are highly challenging and the availability of laryngoscopy is reduced. In response, we have convened a multidisciplinary panel with broad experience in managing this disease and agreed a recommended strategy for presumptive diagnosis in patients who cannot have laryngoscopy performed due to pandemic restrictions.

Triggers of breathlessness in inducible laryngeal obstruction and asthma.

Background: Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) is often misdiagnosed as, or may coexist with, asthma. Identifying differences in triggering factors may assist clinicians to differentiate between the two conditions and could give mechanistic insights.

Objective: To identify and compare patient-reported triggers in ILO and asthma.