Laryngeal Nodules and Polyps

Non-inflammatory response to laryngeal injury usually caused by vocal cord abuse and irritation

Aetiology

  • Vocal abuse, infection, and smoking can all damage the mucosa of the larynx leading to the formation of polyps
  • Rarely associated with hypothyroidism

Pathophysiology

  • Nodules - most often seen in young women, located bilaterally on middle 1/3 to posterior 1/3 on the vocal cord
  • Polyps - unilateral and pedunculated

Clinical presentation

  • Voice changes - hoarseness, raspy voice
  • Pain
  • Frequent coughing/throat clearing

Investigations

Biopsy

  • Stratified squamous epithelium
  • Stroma oedematous/fibrous/myxoid
notion image

Management

  • Voice therapy
  • Some cases require surgery to remove the growths