Vocal fold cyst 188218 202137886 2008-03-30T20:52:31Z 189.6.180.226 '''Vocal fold cysts''' are collections of fluid in sac-like formations on the [[vocal folds]]. Cysts can deteriorate the quality of human [[Manner of articulation|speech]] production, causing diplophonia, a condition where the [[vocal cords]] produce multiple tones at the same time, or [[dysphonia]], an impaired quality of voice typically involving hoarseness or a breathy sound. Females are more likely than males to develop vocal fold cysts and the [[menstrual cycle]] may alter the size of the cyst. The cysts usually appear on one side of the vocal fold but may cause swelling on the opposite side due to irritation. There are two types of vocal fold cysts: mucus retention and epithermoid. * Mucus retention cysts occur when a [[gland]]ular duct becomes blocked and is unable to secrete. This can occur after an [[Common cold|upper respiratory infection]] combined with vocal overuse. * Epidermoid cysts result from either developmental problems before birth or from an injury to the [[mucous membrane]]. A ruptured cyst may result in a scar. Initial treatment of the cysts involves vocal training and [[speech therapy]] along with medical interventions to decrease irritation of the cyst. In many cases, these will alleviate problems from the cyst. In some cases, the cyst grows larger necessitating surgery to remove the cyst. Vocal professionals may also require surgery as the minimal steps do not improve the voice quality enough to allow continued performance with the voice. ==See also== * [[vocal fold nodule]] ==References== * {{cite web | title=Benign Vocal Lesions - Nodules, Polyps, Cysts | work=The Center for Voice at Northwestern University | url=http://www.oto-hns.northwestern.edu/voice/lesions.html | accessmonthday=September 29 | accessyear=2005}} ==External links== * {{cite web | title=Illustration of a vocal fold cyst | work=The Center for Voice at Northwestern University | url=http://www.voice.northwestern.edu/VLESIONS/Cyst.htm | accessmonthday=September 29 | accessyear=2005}} * [http://www.VoiceInfo.org VoiceInfo.org] * [http://homepage.mac.com/changcy/voicestills.htm#cysts Photo Library at VoiceInfo.org] [[Category:Voice disorders]] [[pt:Cisto vocal]]