A Rare Upper Airway Obstruction by Large Hemorrhagic Vocal Polyps

Abstract

Vocal polyps are benign neoplastic lesions which common found in otolaryngology clinic. Mostly presented with hoarseness, dysphonia, the quality of voice changed. The pathologic lesions involve the free edge of vocal fold mucosa, may be found the superior or inferior border, arose from the Reinke’s space, submucosal edema and hemorrhage, leading to fibrosis and hyalinization. Here, we presented an emergency upper airway obstruction by large hemorrhagic laryngeal polyps.  A retrospective case report in a Thai male 48 years old presented with shortness of breathing, biphasic inspiratory stridor and continued airway compromised. He was rescued by tracheostomy under local anesthesia. Laryngoscopic examination revealed a globular, yellowish white, pedunculated vocal mass which arose from anterior commissure region of right vocal cord. Micro laryngeal excision was done. Pathological finding reported compatible with hemorrhagic vocal polyps.