What diseases can be detected by laryngoscopy?
Nov 26, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Laryngoscopy can generally detect conditions such as vocal cord polyps, chronic pharyngitis, laryngeal cancer, epiglottitis, and vocal cord paralysis. Vocal cord polyps: Laryngoscopy allows direct visualization of whether polypoid tissue is present on the surface of the vocal cords, clearly showing the size, location, and morphology of the polyp. It helps determine whether the polyp affects vocal cord vibration, thereby identifying the underlying cause of symptoms such as hoarseness.
Laryngoscopy can generally detect conditions such as vocal cord polyps, chronic pharyngitis, laryngeal cancer, epiglottitis, and vocal cord paralysis. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Vocal Cord Polyps: Laryngoscopy allows direct visualization of whether there is any polypoid tissue protruding on the surface of the vocal cords. It clearly reveals the size, location, and morphology of the polyp, helping determine whether it interferes with vocal cord vibration and thereby identifying the cause of symptoms such as hoarseness.
2. Chronic Pharyngitis: Through laryngoscopy, the condition of the pharyngeal mucosa can be observed. Signs such as mucosal congestion, swelling, or lymphoid follicle hyperplasia, combined with patient-reported symptoms like a foreign body sensation or dryness in the throat, assist in diagnosing chronic pharyngitis.
3. Laryngeal Cancer: Laryngoscopy can identify abnormal neoplasms in the larynx, allowing assessment of their appearance, texture, and extent of growth. Additionally, suspicious tissues can be biopsied during the procedure, providing critical evidence for confirming a diagnosis of laryngeal cancer.
4. Epiglottitis: Laryngoscopy enables clear observation of the epiglottis. If the epiglottis shows signs of congestion, swelling, or even spherical bulging that obstructs the airway entrance, acute epiglottitis can be promptly diagnosed, preventing treatment delays that could lead to respiratory distress.
5. Vocal Cord Paralysis: Laryngoscopy allows evaluation of vocal cord movement. If the vocal cords fail to open or close properly, or exhibit abnormal range of motion, combined with symptoms such as hoarseness or breathing difficulties, this helps diagnose vocal cord paralysis and aids in identifying underlying causes such as nerve damage.
If persistent hoarseness, worsening throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or breathing difficulties occur, medical attention should be sought promptly and laryngoscopy considered. Prior to the examination, patients should follow medical instructions, such as fasting and avoiding fluids; after the exam, they should avoid immediately consuming hard or irritating foods to minimize throat irritation.
