[Pathological studies of vocal polyps and vocal nodes]

Area of Science:

• Laryngology
• Pathology
• Histopathology

Context:

• Vocal fold lesions, including vocal nodes and polyps, are common. Understanding their distinct pathological features is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
• Previous studies have highlighted clinical differences, but detailed histopathological comparisons are less common.

Purpose:

• To investigate the pathological differences and similarities between vocal nodes and vocal polyps.
• To correlate histopathological findings with the proposed etiology of microtrauma in wound repair.

Summary:

• A histopathological analysis of 144 vocal node and polyp samples was conducted.
• No significant short-term differences were observed. Long-term vocal nodes showed thickened basal membranes and abnormal epithelial keratinization.
• Long-term vocal polyps exhibited thinner basement membranes, pronounced edema, and vascular proliferation.

Impact:

• The findings support the theory that vocal nodes and polyps arise from microtrauma during wound repair.
• This understanding helps explain the observed homogeneity and heterogeneity in histological and clinical manifestations of these vocal fold lesions.
• Provides a basis for more targeted therapeutic strategies based on lesion type and stage.