Vocal Granuloma, Including Sclerosis of the Arytenoid Cartilage: Radiographic Findings

Abstract

Vocal granulomas are uncommon benign tumors that may not respond readily to medical treatment or surgical removal. Gastroesophageal reflux is said to be a causative factor. Osteosclerosis of the arytenoid cartilage was found on computed tomographic scan in a series of 21 consecutive patients. The relationship of vocal granuloma to so-called contact ulcer (better called contact pachydermia) is discussed. Imaging of the granuloma and the arytenoid has little, if any, place in management, but should be recognized in the differential diagnosis of a vocal cord mass if the mass lies immediately adjacent to a sclerotic arytenoid.