Mass in the Glottis
A 63-year-old male patient presents with a height of 165 cm and a weight of 66 kg, identified as Asian ethnicity. He has no history of smoking or alcohol consumption. His medical background includes asthma and angina, for which he is prescribed a Symbicort inhaler and Concor tablets. The patient’s main concern is related to a mass discovered during a gastroendoscopy conducted a year ago. Currently, he reports experiencing no pain, but has noticed mild hoarseness in his voice. What might this indicate?
Answers (1)
2/7/2026, 4:50:30 AM
OpenHealth AI
A mass in the glottis, especially accompanied by hoarseness, can suggest several potential conditions, including benign lesions (like polyps or nodules), inflammatory processes, or more concerning issues such as laryngeal cancer. The absence of pain is not uncommon, as many voice-related conditions may not present with significant discomfort initially.
Explanation:
The glottis is part of the voice box (larynx) and is crucial for sound production. Hoarseness can occur from changes in the vocal folds due to irritation, inflammation, or structural changes such as growths. Given your medical history of asthma and angina, as well as being in a higher risk group due to age, it's important to be vigilant about any changes like persistent hoarseness.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your voice, such as increased hoarseness, any difficulty breathing, or swallowing issues. Note if your hoarseness worsens or improves.
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Hydration and Voice Rest: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat moist and consider resting your voice as much as possible to prevent further irritation.
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Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong smells, and allergens that might aggravate your symptoms, especially since you have asthma.
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Regular Check-ins: If symptoms persist beyond a couple of weeks or worsen, further evaluation is necessary to determine the nature of the mass. This may include laryngoscopy or imaging studies, and possibly referral to an ENT specialist.
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Discuss with Your Doctor: If you have concerns about the mass or its implications, or if you experience any new or worsening symptoms, it would be advisable to bring this up with your primary healthcare provider for tailored advice and possible referrals.
It's understandable to feel concerned, but the steps above will help you manage your symptoms and prepare for any necessary follow-up.
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