Laryngeal Neuroma: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kovvuru Bhaskar Reddy , Oncologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Laryngeal Neuroma is a rare benign tumor that arises from the nerve tissue within the larynx (voice box). As the tumor grows, it may interfere with normal vocal cord function and airway patency, leading to symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, throat discomfort, or breathing problems. Although non-cancerous, the condition requires early evaluation to distinguish it from other laryngeal disorders and determine the most appropriate treatment.

What are the Types of Laryngeal Neuroma?

Laryngeal neuromas can be categorized into two types: sensory and motor neuromas. Sensory neuromas affect the nerves responsible for sensation in the larynx, while motor neuromas impact the nerves that control the movement of the vocal cords. These neuromas can cause issues with voice production and swallowing, leading to symptoms such as hoarseness and difficulty speaking.

Recurrent laryngeal nerve neuroma is a rare benign tumor that develops along the recurrent laryngeal nerve, causing voice changes, throat pain, and difficulty swallowing.
Superior laryngeal nerve neuroma typically arises in the upper part of the larynx, leading to hoarseness, coughing, and a sensation of a lump in the throat due to nerve compression.
Vocal cord neuroma is a type of laryngeal neuroma that forms on the vocal cords, resulting in voice changes, such as a breathy or strained voice, and may require surgical removal for treatment.
External laryngeal nerve neuroma affects the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve, leading to symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of Laryngeal Neuroma

Laryngeal neuroma can cause symptoms like hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and a sensation of something stuck in the throat. Some patients may experience shortness of breath or a change in voice pitch. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve outcomes.

Hoarseness or changes in voice quality, such as a persistent raspy or breathy voice, can be a symptom of laryngeal neuroma.
Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of something stuck in the throat may occur in individuals with laryngeal neuroma.
Frequent coughing or throat clearing that does not improve with time could be a sign of laryngeal neuroma.
Pain or discomfort in the neck or throat area, especially when speaking or swallowing, may be experienced by those with laryngeal neuroma.
Episodes of shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, particularly during physical activity or speaking, can be a symptom of laryngeal neuroma.

What are the Causes of Laryngeal Neuroma?

Laryngeal neuromas commonly arise from irritation or damage to the nerves in the larynx due to factors such as chronic coughing, vocal strain, or surgical trauma. Other potential causes include throat infections, tumors, or autoimmune conditions. These growths can lead to symptoms like hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and throat pain, necessitating medical evaluation and treatment.

Laryngeal neuroma can develop as a result of genetic predisposition, where individuals may inherit a genetic mutation that increases their risk of developing this condition.
Chronic irritation or inflammation of the larynx, such as from excessive smoking or exposure to environmental pollutants, can contribute to the formation of a laryngeal neuroma.
A previous history of laryngeal trauma, such as from repeated vocal cord strain or injury, can lead to the development of laryngeal neuroma over time.
Certain viral infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), have been linked to the development of laryngeal neuroma in some cases.

When to See a Doctor for Laryngeal Neuroma?

Individuals with persistent hoarseness, throat discomfort, swallowing difficulties, or breathing problems especially after neck surgery or trauma should consult an ENT Specialist, Oncologists or Head and Neck Surgeon.

You should see a doctor if you experience:

Hoarseness lasting longer than three weeks
Difficulty swallowing
Persistent throat pain or the sensation of a lump in the throat

Seek emergency medical attention if:

You develop severe breathing difficulty
You experience stridor or airway obstruction
You are unable to swallow or aspirate food or liquids

These symptoms may indicate significant airway involvement requiring urgent medical care.

No doctors found for Laryngeal Neuroma in any location.

How is Laryngeal Neuroma Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a laryngeal neuroma involves a thorough examination by an ENT specialist, including a detailed medical history review and a physical examination of the voice box and throat. Additional tests, such as a laryngoscopy or imaging studies, may be conducted to confirm the presence of the neuroma. Early detection is crucial for the successful treatment and management of this condition.

Laryngoscopy: A procedure where a flexible or rigid scope is inserted into the throat to visualize the larynx and detect any abnormal growths, such as a neuroma.
CT Scan/MRI: Imaging tests that can provide detailed pictures of the larynx, helping to identify the presence and location of a neuroma.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken from the laryngeal area to examine it under a microscope for the presence of a neuroma.
Vocal Cord Function Tests: These tests evaluate the movement and function of the vocal cords, which can be affected by a laryngeal neuroma.

What are the Treatment for Laryngeal Neuroma?

Treatment options for laryngeal neuroma may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy to target the abnormal cells, or voice therapy to improve vocal function post-treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the most suitable approach based on the size and location of the neuroma. It's important to follow your doctor's recommendations for the best outcome.

Surgical excision is a common treatment option for laryngeal neuromas, where the tumor is removed through a minimally invasive procedure to relieve symptoms and prevent further growth.
Voice therapy is often recommended post-surgery to help patients regain optimal vocal function and improve their voice quality, as laryngeal neuromas can affect speech patterns and vocal cord movement.
Radiation therapy may be considered for laryngeal neuromas that are inoperable or recur after surgery, using targeted radiation to shrink or control tumor growth while preserving surrounding tissues.
Botox injections can be used to temporarily relax the vocal cords affected by laryngeal neuromas, providing relief from symptoms such as voice

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What are the Risk Factors for Laryngeal Neuroma?

Risk factors for laryngeal neuroma include a history of smoking, exposure to certain industrial chemicals, and genetic predisposition. Additionally, chronic irritation of the larynx, such as from chronic coughing or throat clearing, may increase the risk of developing a laryngeal neuroma. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing this condition effectively.

Smoking tobacco is a significant risk factor for developing Laryngeal Neuroma.
Chronic exposure to industrial chemicals and pollutants may increase the likelihood of developing Laryngeal Neuroma.
Individuals with a family history of Laryngeal Neuroma are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Prolonged and repeated episodes of laryngitis or other throat infections can contribute to the development of Laryngeal Neuroma.
Regular and excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of Laryngeal Neuroma.

What is the Recovery Process for Laryngeal Neuroma?

Recovery depends on the size of the neuroma, the extent of surgery, and whether nerve function is preserved. Most individuals experience gradual improvement in voice and swallowing after treatment, although rehabilitation may be required for persistent symptoms.

Long-term follow-up helps monitor healing and detect recurrence at an early stage.

Recovery Includes

Regular follow-up with an ENT specialist
Voice rest after surgery when recommended
Speech and swallowing therapy
Monitoring for recurrence or persistent nerve dysfunction
Gradual return to normal voice use
Following postoperative care instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common signs of Laryngeal Neuroma?

Common signs of Laryngeal Neuroma include hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, throat pain, and a persistent cough.

2. What are the recommended do's and don'ts for managing Laryngeal Neuroma?

Do: Seek medical advice, undergo voice therapy, practice good vocal hygiene. Don't: Smoke or expose yourself to irritants, strain your voice unnecessarily.

3. What are the Complications of Laryngeal Neuroma?

Potential serious complications of Laryngeal Neuroma include airway obstruction, voice changes, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.

4. What steps should I take for the management of Laryngeal Neuroma?

Treatment options for Laryngeal Neuroma may include voice therapy, surgery to remove the tumor, or radiation therapy depending on the size and location of the neuroma.