Vocal cord cyst

Vocal cord cyst
a) Vocal fold cysts b) Vocal fold cysts with corresponding scars c) Epidermoid cyst

Vocal fold cysts (also known as vocal cord cysts) are benign masses of the membranous vocal folds.[1] These cysts are enclosed, sac-like structures that are typically of a yellow or white colour.[2] They occur unilaterally on the midpoint of the medial edge of the vocal folds.[1] They can also form on the upper/superior, surface of the vocal folds.[1] There are two types of vocal fold cysts:[1]

  1. Sub-epithelial vocal fold cysts- located in the superficial lamina propria of the vocal folds.[1]
  2. Ligament vocal fold cysts- located within the deeper layers of the lamina propria or on the vocal ligament.[1]

The symptoms of vocal fold cysts vary but most commonly include a hoarse voice and problems with the pitch of the voice. Vocal fold cysts are diagnosed based on gathering a case history, perceptual examination, and laryngeal imaging.[3] Practicing good vocal hygiene is recommended to prevent vocal fold cysts.[4] Initial treatment of the cysts involves voice therapy to reduce harmful vocal behaviours. If symptoms remain after voice therapy, patients may require surgery to remove the cyst. Surgery is typically followed by vocal rest and further voice therapy to improve voice function. Cysts may also be treated using vocal fold steroid injection.[5]

  1. ^ a b c d e f Verdolini, Katherine; Rosen, Clark A; Branski, Ryan C (2005). Classification manual for voice disorders-I. Psychology Press.
  2. ^ Simpson, Blake; Rosen, Clark (2008). Operative Techniques in Laryngology. Berlin: Springer. ISBN 978-3-540-68107-6.
  3. ^ Franco, Ramon A.; Andrus, Jennifer G. (2007). "Common Diagnoses and Treatments in Professional Voice Users". Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America. 40 (5): 1025–1061. doi:10.1016/j.otc.2007.05.008. PMID 17765694.
  4. ^ Calhoun, Karen H.; Wax, Mark K.; Ebling, David E., eds. (2001). Expert guide to otolaryngology (1st ed.). American College of Physicians.
  5. ^ Cite error: The named reference :7 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).