Can leukoplakia of the vocal cords resolve with medication?
Aug 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
If a patient's vocal cord leukoplakia is caused by factors such as excessive voice use or smoking, then under medical guidance, treatment with specific medications is usually feasible and can help alleviate local inflammation and promote mucosal repair of the vocal cords. In such cases, medication may lead to resolution of the condition. During treatment, patients should maintain healthy lifestyle habits to facilitate recovery.
Generally speaking, whether leukoplakia of the vocal cords can regress with medication depends on the specific underlying causes. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo targeted treatment after the cause is clearly identified. The detailed analysis is as follows:
1. If vocal cord leukoplakia is caused by factors such as excessive voice use or smoking, it can usually regress.
If a patient's vocal cord leukoplakia results from excessive voice use, smoking, or similar factors, targeted medications prescribed under medical supervision are generally effective. These medications can help alleviate local inflammation and promote mucosal repair of the vocal cords. Therefore, in such cases, taking medication may lead to regression of the lesion.
2. If vocal cord leukoplakia is caused by abnormal cell proliferation, it usually cannot regress with medication alone.
However, if the leukoplakia is due to abnormal cell proliferation, medication alone typically cannot achieve complete resolution. It is recommended that patients visit a reputable hospital and, under a doctor’s guidance, undergo surgical treatments such as laser surgery under microscopic laryngoscopy or transoral laser resection.
During treatment, patients should maintain healthy lifestyle habits, avoid smoking and excessive voice use, to support recovery.
