Dictionary

laryngeal papillomatosis: A colonization of warts on the vocal cords and a very common condition in infants and children who were exposed during birth to the human papilloma virus (HPV), or genital warts.

laryngectomee: A person who must breathe through a stoma after permanent removal of the voice box.

laryngectomy: A surgical procedure to remove a portion of or all of the larynx.

laryngoscopy: A minor procedure used to inspect the larynx, either indirectly with a mirror or by the more direct use of a laryngoscope.

larynx: Also known as the voice box, this organ lies between the trachea and the pharynx and contains the vocal cords.

melanocytes: Pigment cells that can also line passageways, including the sinuses and nasal cavities.

nasendoscope: A specialized endoscope that is inserted through the nose and into the rear portion of throat and that uses fiber optics to transfer images.

nasopharynx: The area between the nose and above the roof of the mouth that operates in conjunction with the top part of the throat and mouth.

neck dissection: A surgical procedure used to remove cancerous tissue surrounding the larynx. May include selective or radical lymph node, nerve and muscle excision.

nodules: Callus-like growths that appear on the vocal cords, typically occurring with excessive use of the voice. Can be either benign or cancerous.

oropharynx: Connecting to the nasopharynx and lying in the middle of the pharynx, beginning at the soft palate.