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Metastatic calcification involving the true vocal cord
Nilesh P Patel1, S Carter Wright, Simon Bergman
1Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1070, USA.
American Journal of Otolaryngology
|May 5, 2009
Summary
Metastatic calcification, a complication of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), can affect the vocal cords. This case highlights the rare occurrence of vocal cord metastatic calcification in an ESRD patient.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Otolaryngology
- Pathology
Background:
- Metastatic calcification (MC) is a known complication in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) due to calcium and phosphorus imbalances.
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism is common in ESRD patients, further contributing to mineral dysregulation.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old male with ESRD and secondary hyperparathyroidism presented with hoarseness.
- Laryngoscopy revealed a papillomatous lesion on the right true vocal cord.
- Histological examination of the excised lesion showed benign squamous epithelium with extensive submucosal calcification.
Findings:
- This case represents the second report of metastatic calcification involving a true vocal cord.
- Metastatic calcification can manifest in various anatomical locations, including the vocal cords, in ESRD patients with mineral dysregulation.
Implications:
- Pathologists should consider metastatic calcification in the differential diagnosis of vocal cord lesions, especially in ESRD patients.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial as calcification can mimic other pathologies, including malignancies.
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