Typically the lesion develops on the vocal folds of an elderly male who has been a heavy smoker of cigarettes. This malignacy is known for its slow growth pattern and well developed hyperkeratotic epithelial boundaries. The lesion may invade or infiltrate the borders of adjacent structures but it rarely metatasizes. The resultant voice disorder is progressive hoarseness with possible airway obstruction. Verrucous carcinoma may transform into an invasive form of carcinoma or coexist with other squamous cell carcinomas.
Medical treatment includes surgical excision and in some cases radiation therapy.
Introduction Premalignant lesions of the larynx are disorders of the epithelium covering of the vocal tract which may have the potential to progress to malignancy. These areas can be erythematous, frank ulcerations or whitish plaques. All of these lesions are responses to chronic irritation and must be recognized and followed carefully. Leukoplakia Leukoplakia is typically seen as a patchy buildup of tissue on the true vocal folds that has a leathery, white, crusty appearance. The lesions are usually bilateral and asymmetrical in both appearance and effect.