Reinke's edema

Reinke's Edema

Reinke's edema (pronounced RYE-n-keys eh-DEE-muh) is a medical condition characterized by the swelling of the vocal cords due to fluid accumulation in the Reinke's space, a potential space located between the vocal ligament and the overlying mucosa. The condition is named after the German anatomist Friedrich B. Reinke, who first described the space in 1895.

Etymology

The term "Reinke's edema" is derived from the name of Friedrich B. Reinke, a German anatomist, and the Greek word "οἴδημα" (oídēma), meaning swelling. Reinke first described the space in the vocal cords that bears his name in 1895.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Reinke's edema is a change in voice quality, often described as hoarse or husky. Other symptoms may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), shortness of breath (dyspnea), and a feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation).

Causes

Reinke's edema is most commonly associated with chronic irritation of the vocal cords, such as from smoking, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or excessive use of the voice. It can also occur as a result of hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause.

Treatment

Treatment for Reinke's edema typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may include lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or managing GERD, and voice therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the excess fluid from the vocal cords.

Related Terms

• Vocal cords
• Larynx
• Dysphagia
• Dyspnea
• Globus sensation
• GERD

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Reinke's edema
• Wikipedia's article - Reinke's edema

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