HYPERKERATOSIS

Definition:: * A mass of accumulated keratin (a scleroproteinous pigmented spot or covering)
which may grow on the inner glottal margins of the vocal folds causing pronounced
hoarseness. This requires close supervision of a laryngologist, since it occasionally
develops into malignancy.
Related Terms:: 1. Leukoplakia; 2. Keratosis; 3. Keratosis with cellular atypia; 4. Dyskeratosis
Lesions:: 1. Leukoplakia: flat, white, plaque-like lesions; 2. Papillary keratosis: irregular growth of reddish epithelium that results in a warty
lesion.; * Lesions may be unilateral or bilateral, but are usually assymetric in appearance.
For the most part the lesions affect the cover, increasing its mass and stiffness.
Etiology:: * Smoking, environmental pollutants, and gastroesophageal reflux disease can all
be an etiology.
Perceptual Signs and Symptoms:: * Primary symptom is hoarseness or roughness of voice.
Acoustic Sign:: * Data shows greater than normal airflow.; Monica Spann, 1997