Differential Diagnosis for Edematous Arytenoids

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Acute Laryngitis: This is the most common cause of edematous arytenoids, often resulting from viral infections, voice abuse, or irritants like smoke. The inflammation leads to swelling of the arytenoid cartilages.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid reflux can cause chronic inflammation and edema of the arytenoids due to the acidic environment.
  • Allergic Reactions: Allergens can trigger an allergic response, leading to edema and swelling in the laryngeal area, including the arytenoids.
  • Trauma: Direct injury to the larynx, such as from intubation or external trauma, can cause edema of the arytenoids.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Epiglottitis: Although less common, epiglottitis can cause significant swelling that might affect the arytenoids indirectly and can lead to airway obstruction, which is a medical emergency.
  • Angioedema: A severe allergic reaction that can cause rapid swelling of the airways, including the arytenoids, potentially leading to airway obstruction.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause granulomatous inflammation in various parts of the body, including the larynx, leading to edema of the arytenoids.
  • Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid proteins in various tissues, which can rarely affect the larynx and cause edema of the arytenoids.
  • Relapsing Polychondritis: An autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and destruction of cartilaginous structures, including those in the larynx, leading to edema and other complications.