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What is the difference between vocal cord leukoplakia and vocal cord polyps?

Sep 26, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, the differences between vocal cord leukoplakia and vocal cord polyps lie in their origins, symptoms, morphology, severity, and causative factors. Vocal cord leukoplakia results from mucosal overgrowths or white patches caused by excessive voice use; vocal cord polyps are tumors arising from overuse of the vocal cords or vocal cord inflammation.

Generally, the differences between vocal cord leukoplakia and vocal polyps include different origins, symptoms, appearances, severity levels, and causative factors. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Different Origins

Vocal cord leukoplakia results from mucosal overgrowths or white patches caused by excessive voice use; vocal polyps are tumors arising from overuse of the vocal cords or laryngitis.

2. Different Symptoms

Vocal cord leukoplakia may cause hoarseness, voice roughness, dry mouth, or difficulty speaking; vocal polyps mainly present with hoarseness or rough voice and easy vocal fatigue.

3. Different Appearances

Vocal cord leukoplakia appears as white or gray-white patches with surface irregularities such as depressions and usually occurs unilaterally; vocal polyps have a smooth surface, are mobile, vary in size, and commonly appear bilaterally.

4. Different Severity Levels

Vocal cord leukoplakia is a benign condition but considered a precancerous lesion; vocal polyps are inflammatory growths on the vocal cords classified as benign lesions that rarely undergo malignant transformation and can generally be cured surgically.

5. Different Causative Factors

Vocal cord leukoplakia is primarily caused by long-term smoking or exposure to chemical substances; vocal polyps are mainly due to prolonged and excessive strain on the vocal cords.

If patients experience any discomfort, they should promptly seek medical attention at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

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