Causes And Risk Factors Associated With Vocal Cord Paralysis

Presence Of A Tumor

The presence of a tumor may cause paralysis of one vocal cord. Normally, tumors that lead to vocal cord paralysis are located in or around the cartilage, nerves, and muscles of the larynx, though occasionally, tumors of the neck, chest, and brain may also result in this condition. Both benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumors may impact the vocal cords. The symptoms associated with tumors in or near the larynx include a hoarse voice and many of the same signs associated with vocal cord paralysis itself. For this reason, patients who notice any unusual changes to their voice that persist for more than two weeks should visit a throat specialist promptly. To differentiate between vocal cord paralysis and a tumor, patients may need to have specialized CT or MRI scans, and they could also need to have an endoscopy. If a tumor is discovered, treatment will depend on its size and location. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy may all be needed, and patients will be referred to an oncologist.