Vocal cord papilloma is a disease that causes wart-like growths in the throat. This disease is caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through contact between people, although not everyone infected will develop wart-like growths. These types of growths are more common in children and can grow faster than in adults.
The most prominent symptom in individuals with vocal cord papilloma is painless hoarseness. As the growths enlarge, they can also lead to breathing problems. These growths can be found not only on the vocal cords but also in the throat and mouth, and have a raspberry-like appearance.
Although there is no definitive method to cure this disease, it is possible to reduce the size of the growths and manage symptoms through surgical interventions. Unfortunately, these growths can recur even after removal, which may necessitate multiple surgeries.
During surgery, doctors take care to preserve the quality and function of the voice, as excessive interventions can cause permanent damage to the voice. Therefore, minimally invasive surgical methods are used as much as possible.
When the disease recurs, doctors decide on the treatment based on the size of the growths and the impact on the voice. If the disease is widespread throughout the throat and symptoms are absent, surgery for every small recurrence area is usually not necessary. Excessive surgeries do not alter the course of the disease and can expose the patient to unnecessary risks and scarring.
Vocal cord papilloma requires regular doctor visits and treatments to monitor the disease. However, through regular interventions aimed at preserving the patient’s quality of life and voice function, the disease can be managed and sometimes completely cured.