Clinicopathologic study and classification of vocal cord cysts

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Laryngology
• Pathology

Background:

• Cysts of the true vocal cords are relatively rare compared to other laryngeal cysts.
• Patients commonly present with hoarseness and/or dyspnea due to vocal cord obstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical and histological aspects of true vocal cord cysts.
• To propose a novel histological classification system for these lesions.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 41 cases of true vocal cord cysts.
• Analysis of clinical presentations and histological findings.
• Development of a new classification based on epithelial characteristics.

Main Results:

• True vocal cord cysts are generally easily recognized and managed.
• A new classification categorizes cysts into four types based on epithelial lining (columnar or squamous) and content (mucous, cilia, or keratinization).

Conclusions:

• True vocal cord cysts, though uncommon, have distinct clinical and histological features.
• The proposed histological classification provides a framework for understanding and potentially guiding the management of these laryngeal cysts.