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Vocal fold nodule
Classification and external resources
Histopathologic image of vocal fold nodule or polyp. Biopsy specimen. H & E stain.
ICD-10J38.2
ICD-9478.5
DiseasesDB29628

A vocal fold nodule (or "Nodules of vocal cords") is a nodule or mass of tissue that grows on the vocal folds (vocal cords). The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (most commonly known by the abbreviation ICD) provides codes to classify Diseases The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision ( ICD -10) is a coding of diseases and signs symptoms abnormal findings J00-J99 - Diseases of the respiratory system (J00-J06 Acute upper respiratory infections ( Acute Nasopharyngitis ( Common cold) The International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (most commonly known by the abbreviation ICD) provides codes to classify Diseases The following is a list of codes for International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. The Diseases Database is a free Website that provides information about the relationships between medical conditions Symptoms, and Medications. The vocal folds, also known commonly as vocal cords, are composed of twin infoldings of Mucous membrane stretched horizontally across the Larynx. Typically this mass will appear on the anterior one-third of the vocal fold, where contact is most forceful.

A vocal fold nodule reduces or obstructs the ability of the vocal folds to create the rapid changes in air pressure which generate human speech. Speech refers to the processes associated with the production and perception of Sounds used in Spoken language. Symptoms include hoarseness of speech, painful speech production, frequent vocal breaks and reduced vocal range. Females are most likely to develop nodules.

The nodules appear as symmetric swellings on both sides of the vocal folds. The cause of these formations are usually strenuous or abusive voice practices such as yelling and coughing. Persons who are often susceptible are those who use their voice constantly in a loud environment. Vocal loading is the stress inflicted on the Speech organs when speaking for long periods Examples include teachers, cheerleaders, politicians, actors, musicians, singers and in some instances Marine Corps drill instructors.

Picture showing vocal nodule(to lower right)
Picture showing vocal nodule
(to lower right)

Contents

Prognosis

Vocal fold nodules, although they can certainly impair one's speaking and singing ability, rarely harm one's general health. Indeed, the psychological trauma of being diagnosed with nodules -- a trauma affecting those especially whose professional success depends on consistently producing a rich and powerful vocal tone (e. Psychological trauma is a type of damage to the psyche that occurs as a result of a traumatic event. g. singers, actors, broadcasters) -- typically dwarfs the limited systemic and even otorhinolaryngological effects. Otolaryngology is the branch of Medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Ear, Nose, Throat, and head and neck disorders

Treatment

Treatment, or voice rehabilitation, usually involves vocal training, speech therapy, and, occasionally, vocal rest. Speech-language pathology is the study of disorders that affect a person's Speech, Language, cognition voice swallowing ( Dysphagia) and the rehabilitative In rare cases, surgery may be required. Removal of vocal fold nodules is a relatively safe and minor surgery. However, those who sing professionally or otherwise should take serious consideration before having surgery. While the patient is subdued under general anesthesia, long thin scissors and knives are used to remove the nodules. The best preventative steps seem to be wrapped up in the study of vocology, the science and practice of voice habilitation. Vocology, originally coined by voice scientist Ingo R Titze has been defined as the science and practice of voice habilitation.

Symptoms of vocal nodules include vocal fatigue and hoarseness or breathiness. Hoarseness or breathiness that lasts for more than two weeks may signal a voice disorder and should be followed up with an appointment with ENT. Otolaryngology is the branch of Medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Ear, Nose, Throat, and head and neck disorders

Famous nodule sufferers

See also

External links

Vocology, originally coined by voice scientist Ingo R Titze has been defined as the science and practice of voice habilitation. Otolaryngology is the branch of Medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Ear, Nose, Throat, and head and neck disorders
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