Vocal Cord Polyp

Aka: Vocal Cord Polyp, Laryngeal Polyp, Vocal Cord Nodule

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II. Etiologies

  1. Tobacco Abuse or smoke exposure
  2. Voice Abuse
  3. Viral cause

III. Pathophysiology

  1. Papilloma
    1. Chronic irritation of vocal cord leading to edema
  2. Papillomata (Squamous Cell papilloma)
    1. Common, Viral cause

IV. Symptoms

  1. Hoarseness follows as polyp forms

V. Signs

  1. Vocal Cord Nodule
    1. Bilateral opposing "knots"
    2. Occur at mid-vocal cord
  2. Vocal Cord Polyp
    1. Erythematous, smooth, mobile vocal cord lesions
    2. Larger than Nodules, but similar location

VI. Differential Diagnosis

  1. Laryngeal Neoplasm

VII. Management

  1. Strict voice rest
    1. No whispering (causes as much strain as yelling)
    2. Soft breathy voice is least Traumatic
  2. ENT referral for biopsy or surgical excision

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