From the Research
Definition and Characteristics of Reinke's Edema
- Reinke's edema (RE) is a condition characterized by the polypoid degeneration of one or both vocal folds within Reinke's space, altering the viscoelastic properties of the mucosal folds 1.
- It is also known as polypoid corditis, polypoid laryngitis, and polypoid degeneration of the vocal fold, and is strongly associated with smoking, frequently with vocal misuse/abuse, and occasionally with laryngopharyngeal reflux 2.
- The condition is benign, but can cause chronic dysphonia and is difficult to manage 2.
Risk Factors and Demographics
- The primary risk factor for Reinke's edema is tobacco use, with women being more affected than men 1, 2.
- Voice overuse and laryngopharyngeal reflux are also considered to be contributory factors 1.
- The condition typically occurs in adults with a history of chronic smoke exposure 2.
Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis
- Patients with Reinke's edema most frequently present with dysphonia, and may experience a loss of pitch control and a rough voice 1, 2.
- The condition can be diagnosed through laryngoscopy, and may be classified into different types based on morphological characteristics, such as the involvement of one or two vocal folds and the presence or absence of polypoid lesions 3.
Treatment and Management
- Treatment for Reinke's edema is focused on decreasing risk factors, such as implementation of smoking cessation, voice therapy, and reflux control 1.
- Surgical techniques, such as the microflap technique, aim to decrease redundant polypoid mucosa in order to improve voice and restore the glottic airway 2.
- However, recurrence of Reinke's edema is high, and additional research is needed to further elucidate the role of uncontrolled reflux in the development and recurrence of the condition 2.