Laryngeal Ulcers: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

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.