Differential Diagnosis for White Secretion in the Arytenoid
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Chronic laryngitis: This condition is often associated with inflammation of the larynx, which can lead to the production of white secretions in the arytenoid region due to chronic irritation, often from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), allergies, or environmental exposures.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Acute laryngitis: Similar to chronic laryngitis but with a more sudden onset, often due to viral or bacterial infections, which can cause inflammation and secretion in the arytenoid area.
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR): A condition where stomach acid flows back into the throat, causing irritation and potentially leading to white secretions in the arytenoid region.
- Allergic reactions: Allergies can cause postnasal drip, which may lead to the accumulation of white secretions in the arytenoid area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Laryngeal cancer: Although less common, laryngeal cancer can present with abnormal secretions, including white secretions in the arytenoid area, and is critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
- Tuberculosis (TB): TB can affect the larynx and cause white secretions among other symptoms. Given its potential severity and the importance of early treatment, it's a diagnosis not to be missed.
- Rare diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the larynx, potentially leading to white secretions in the arytenoid area.
- Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection that can affect the larynx and cause symptoms including white secretions, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- Relapsing polychondritis: A rare disease that causes cartilage inflammation, which can affect the larynx and potentially lead to abnormal secretions.