Signs & Symptoms of Laryngeal Ulcers

Laryngeal ulcers are ulcers of the larynx. Such an ulcer is also referred to as a pyogenic granuloma. Laryngeal ulcers are benign lesions that are most common among adult men.

Symptoms

Symptoms include hoarseness and/or pain of the throat. Habitual coughing and chronic throat-clearing may also be experienced.

Causes

Most often, laryngeal ulcers are caused by voice box abuse. Singers often experience laryngeal ulcers as a result of glottal attacks, or a sudden loudness at the onset of phonation. Gastroesophageal reflux may also be a cause or aggravating factor with laryngeal ulcers.

Treatment

Treatment includes a six-week voice box rest. Adjustments to the voice must be practiced in post recovery to avoid recurrence. A biopsy should also be performed to exclude the possibility of carcinoma or tuberculosis. Conservative surgery or irradiation with or without chemotherapy may also be performed.

Laryngeal Ulcers Left Untreated

Nonspecific granulomas are a result of prolonged ulceration, which leads to various degress of hoarseness.

Preventing Recurrence

After surgical removal, granulomas often recur. Gastroesophageal reflux treatment should be practiced rigorously and will reduce the risk of recurrence. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to suppress bacterial flora.

References

• FindArticles.com
• Merck