Drug treatment for laryngeal stenosis is
**Core Concept**
Mitomycin C is a chemotherapeutic agent that has been repurposed for its antiproliferative effects on fibroblasts, making it an effective treatment for laryngeal stenosis, a condition characterized by excessive fibrosis and scarring of the laryngeal mucosa.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Mitomycin C works by inhibiting DNA synthesis and function, thereby preventing the proliferation of fibroblasts and subsequent collagen deposition. This results in a reduction of scar tissue formation and an improvement in laryngeal patency. The mechanism of action of Mitomycin C involves the formation of cross-links between DNA strands, which prevents the replication of DNA and subsequently halts cell division. This makes it an effective treatment for laryngeal stenosis, which is often caused by excessive fibrosis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Adriamycin (Doxorubicin) is a chemotherapeutic agent that works by intercalating into DNA and inhibiting the enzyme topoisomerase II, which is involved in DNA replication. However, it is not typically used to treat laryngeal stenosis.
**Option C:** Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent that works by adding an alkyl group to the DNA molecule, which prevents DNA replication and cell division. While it is used to treat various cancers, it is not typically used to treat laryngeal stenosis.
**Option D:** Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) is a chemotherapeutic agent that works by intercalating into DNA and inhibiting the enzyme topoisomerase II, which is involved in DNA replication. As mentioned earlier, it is not typically used to treat laryngeal stenosis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Mitomycin C is often used in-office or during endoscopic procedures to treat laryngeal stenosis, making it a convenient and effective treatment option for this condition. It is essential to note that the use of Mitomycin C in laryngeal stenosis is off-label, and its efficacy and safety have been established through various clinical studies.
✓ Correct Answer: B. Mitomycin C