Papillomata of the Vocal Folds: A Review

Abstract

A clinical program of vocal rehabilitation for eight patients with biopsied papillomata of the vocal folds was undertaken for three months. Although a review of the literature indicates that vocal abuse and irritation are possible etiological factors, as are virus infection and hormonal imbalance, the main methods of treatment for papillomatosis are medical, immunological, surgical, and physical. This study revealed that the papillomata, which are pseudomalignant lesions, were reduced or eliminated in four of the eight patients through vocal rehabilitation. The program of vocal therapy essentially stressed location and establishment of the optimal pitch level and a balanced oronaso-pharyngeal tone focus. Good vocal hygiene was an essential part of the program. The results of this study indicate a need for continued clinical investigations to determine the effect of vocal rehabilitation upon other pseudomalignant lesions of the vocal folds, such as leukoplakia and keratosis.