Laryngeal anomalies: Pitfalls in adult forensic autopsies

Abstract

Objective: This is the first paper to group together most of adult laryngeal anomalies or malformations which may be misinterpreted by the forensic pathologist and taken for a proof of violence. Material and methods: A review of the literature, to list the main pitfalls, to explain their nature and their origins. Results: We found two main categories, the congenital defects and the acquired anomalies. Conclusions: The laryngeal region is complex. The pathologist must keep in mind anatomical variations or malformations, but also sequelae of old injuries and iatrogenic lesions. The survey, the patient’s clinical history, the findings of the whole autopsy and, if necessary, histology may help to interpret a laryngeal anomaly.