Vocal Cord Growths, Leukoplakia & Laryngeal Cancer
Early detection and treatment of vocal cord growths, leukoplakia and laryngeal cancer.
Overview
Understanding Vocal Cord Growths, Leukoplakia & Laryngeal Cancer
Persistent hoarseness or a growth on the vocal cords should never be ignored. Vocal cord growths may be benign (non-cancerous), precancerous or cancerous, and early diagnosis is essential for successful treatment and preservation of the voice.
At Dr. Hans' Voice & Swallowing Centre, patients undergo comprehensive evaluation by a fellowship-trained Laryngologist using advanced Video Stroboscopy, Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) and Flexible Video Laryngoscopy for early detection and accurate diagnosis of vocal cord lesions.
- Persistent hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
- Change in voice quality
- Persistent throat discomfort
- Difficulty swallowing
- Pain while swallowing
- Chronic throat clearing
- Persistent cough
- Difficulty breathing (advanced cases)
- Coughing up blood (rare)
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Vocal cord leukoplakia
- Chronic irritation of the vocal cords
- Acid reflux (LPR)
- Previous head and neck cancer
- Increasing age
- Detailed history and ENT examination
- Flexible Video Laryngoscopy
- Video Stroboscopy
- Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) for early detection of precancerous changes
- Biopsy of suspicious lesions
- CT scan or MRI, when indicated
- Observation with regular surveillance for selected benign lesions
- Medical management
- Microlaryngeal surgery
- Laser-assisted surgery
- Biopsy of suspicious lesions
- Referral for radiation therapy or oncological treatment when required
- Regular follow-up with Video Stroboscopy
Our centre combines advanced Video Stroboscopy, Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) and expert laryngeal assessment to detect vocal cord lesions at the earliest possible stage. Early diagnosis enables timely treatment, improves the chances of cure and, in many patients, helps preserve natural voice quality.
When to See a Doctor
- Hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks
- A persistent vocal cord growth
- Voice change in a smoker
- Difficulty swallowing associated with hoarseness
- Recurrent vocal cord lesions
- Previous history of vocal cord leukoplakia or cancer
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Many vocal cord growths are benign, such as papillomas, granulomas or other non-cancerous lesions. However, every persistent vocal cord growth should be evaluated by a Laryngologist.
Leukoplakia appears as a white patch on the vocal cord and may represent benign changes, precancerous lesions or, less commonly, early cancer. It requires careful evaluation and follow-up.
NBI is an advanced endoscopic technology that enhances visualization of abnormal blood vessels and helps detect early precancerous and cancerous changes that may not be visible with routine examination.
Yes. When diagnosed early, vocal cord cancer has an excellent cure rate, and many patients can be treated while preserving their voice.
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Our experts are ready to help you with accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.