Vocal Fold Nodule  (also called Singer's Nodes, Screamer's Nodes)

Vocal fold nodules are the most common benign vocal fold lesions.  Vocal fold nodules are typically present on both vocal folds.  They usually face each other.  They are typically located at the midpoint of the membranous part of the vocal fold.  These lesions are thought of as the "calluses of the vocal fold." Vocal characteristics include hoarseness, breathiness, and lowered pitch.  Vocal fold nodules are common among children (more common in boys) and are also seen in young adult females.  Individuals with vocal fold nodules usually are extroverts and may have a loud voice.

Treatment

Voice therapy is often the first step in resolving nodules; treatment is usually 4 - 8 weeks. Results may vary depending on how long the nodules have been present and patient compliance with the therapy program.  Surgical removal may be appropriate in some cases.

Vocal Fold Nodules

Vocal Fold Polyp

A vocal fold polyp is a fluid-filled lesion that may occur unilaterally or bilaterally.  A vocal fold polyp typically occurs only on one side of the vocal fold.  Vocal characteristics often include hoarseness, breathiness, diplophonia (audible perception of two distinct pitches), and stridor (noisy breathing).  They are most commonly thought to be caused by vocal abuse or trauma, cigarette smoking, or vocal fold hemorrhage, but the exact cause is unknown.

Treatment

Vocal fold polyps usually do not respond to voice therapy; however, the physician may recommend voice therapy to clear the surgical field (reduce swelling and irritation).  Surgical removal will most likely be recommended.

Vocal Fold Polyp

Vocal Fold Cyst

A vocal fold cyst is a firm mass of organized material contained within a sac that may be congenital or acquired.  They may appear on only one or both of the vocal folds.  The cyst can be located near the surface of the vocal fold or deeper, near the ligament of the vocal fold.  Vocal quality consistent with a vocal cord cyst may include hoarseness, breathiness, and voice and pitch breaks.

Treatment

Vocal fold cysts generally do not respond to voice therapy, and surgical removal will most likely be recommended depending on the severity of the vocal problem; however, the physician may recommend voice therapy pre-surgically to clear the surgical field (reduce swelling and irritation) or post-surgically to address any residual hoarseness.

Vocal Fold Cyst