Laryngology: Voice and Swallowing

Natasha Mirza, MD

Rheologic Properties of Saliva in Health and Disease

This research study is being done to look for better ways to treat xerostomia, or “dry mouth”. Comparing the saliva (spit) of people who do and do not have xerostomia will help us to better understand the disease and try to develop better treatments. If you agree to join the study, you will be asked to complete the following research procedures:
1. Fill out a survey about dry mouth symptoms.
2. Provide a saliva sample.
3. Let the researchers collect information from your medical record.

Subject Population: Adults who have xerostomia (sensation of dry mouth) and healthy adults

Duration of Subject Participation: About 30 minutes

Contact: Dr. Natasha Mirza (215) 662-2137

Local Inflammatory Signatures Associated with Aberrant Wound Healing in Acquired Subglottic Stenosis: a Case-Control Study

This research study is being done to look for markers of inflammation or microorganisms (such as
bacteria or viruses) naturally found living in a person’s airway that may put them at risk for developing
a narrowing of the airway.
If you agree to join the study, you will be asked to complete the following research procedures:
1. Let the researchers collect mucus from the lining of your airway using a small swab while you are in the operating room under anesthesia (asleep) for your scheduled airway testing.
2. Let the researchers collect information from your medical record.

Subject Population: Adults who are scheduled to have an airway test, called microdirect laryngoscopy or MDL, done in the operating room

Duration of Subject Participation: About 5 minutes

Contact: Dr. Natasha Mirza (215) 662-2137 or Dr. Tiffany Chao (215) 662-2979

Psychiatric Diagnoses in Transgender Patients Presenting for Voice Related Assignment: A Single-Institution Experience

Voice Affirming Surgery Retro

This is a retrospective cohort study and its objective is to learn how voice affirming surgery can lead to mood disorders, anxiety disorders, suicidality and substance use disorder in transgender patients .

Contact: Sara Hobday sara.hobday@pennmedicine.upenn.edu