Head & Neck
Laryngeal Conditions & Cancer
Abnormalities may affect the larynx, commonly known as the voice box. The larynx is located in the throat and plays a crucial role in breathing, swallowing, and producing sounds or speech. Several conditions can affect the larynx, ranging from benign to malignant (cancerous). Some common ones include:
a) Laryngitis
Inflammation of the larynx is often caused by viral infections, overuse of the voice (vocal cords), or exposure to irritants like smoke. Symptoms include hoarseness, sore throat and difficulty speaking.
b) Vocal Cord Nodules and Polyps
Non-cancerous growths on the vocal cords are caused by vocal strain or misuse. These can lead to hoarseness, a breathy voice, and discomfort while speaking.
c) Laryngeal Papillomas
Benign growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) can develop on the vocal cords or elsewhere in the larynx. They can cause hoarseness and breathing difficulties.
d) Laryngeal Trauma
Injuries to the larynx due to accidents, surgery, or prolonged intubation can lead to difficulty breathing, voice changes or even airway obstruction.
e) Reinke's Edema
Swelling of the vocal cords due to chronic exposure to irritants like smoking or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD/GORD) can result in hoarseness and a low-pitched voice.
f) Laryngomalacia
A congenital condition where the tissues of the larynx are soft and floppy, causing breathing difficulties, stridor (noisy breathing) and feeding problems in infants.
g) Laryngeal Cancer
A type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the larynx. It can affect the vocal cords, epiglottis, or other parts of the larynx. Symptoms include persistent hoarseness, throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and a lump in the neck.
To diagnose laryngeal cancer, several imaging tests like CT or MRI scans, chest X-ray and PET scan may be done. Laryngoscopy may also be conducted under general anaesthesia to examine the larynx thoroughly and potentially perform excisions or biopsies. This involves an endoscope and can typically be done as a day-stay procedure.
Treatment for laryngeal conditions depends on the specific condition and its severity. It may include medications (e.g. antibiotics for laryngitis), voice therapy, surgery (e.g. for removing nodules or cancerous tumors), and lifestyle changes (e.g. quitting smoking or voice rest). Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for preserving voice function and overall laryngeal health.
