Non-cancerous tumours of the larynx
A non-cancerous (benign) tumour of the larynx is a growth that does not spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. Non-cancerous tumours are not usually life-threatening.
Non-cancerous tumours can appear in any part of the larynx and include juvenile papillomas, hemangiomas, fibromas, rhabdomyomas, leiomyomas, schwannomas, chondromas, myxomas and neurofibromas. Papillomas and neurofibromas sometimes become cancerous.
Symptoms
The symptoms of non-cancerous laryngeal tumours include:
- hoarseness
- a weak or breathy voice
- trouble breathing
- trouble swallowing
- ear pain
Diagnosis
If you have symptoms or your doctor thinks you might have a non-cancerous tumour, you will be sent for tests. Tests used to diagnose or rule out a non-cancerous tumour or laryngeal cancer include:
- a physical exam
- a laryngoscopy
- a biopsy
- a CT scan
Find out more about physical exams, a laryngoscopy, biopsies and CT scans.
Treatments
Treatment for non-cancerous tumours of the larynx is surgery to remove the tumour. Smaller tumours may be removed by laser surgery.