Laryngeal cysts can occur in any part of the larynx, but are more frequent in supraglottic locations, such as the epiglottis and vallecula. The prevalence of each location varies in different studies.
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Epidemiology
The laryngeal cysts represent a rare group, about 5%, of benign laryngeal lesions 1. There is no gender predilection 3.
Clinical presentation
Normally they are examination findings in patients with non-specific symptoms or who are asymptomatic. Patients can have laryngeal stridor or dyspnea 2.
The lesions can cause significant respiratory obstruction, and even death if not properly treated.
Radiographic features
CT
Well-defined, fluid-attenuation, non-enhancing rounded lesion.
MRI
Well-defined, fluid signal intensity, non-enhancing rounded lesion.
Treatment and prognosis
Different forms of treatment have been described for laryngeal cysts, such as aspiration, marsupialization with laser ablation and complete excision. Recurrence is directly related to the maintenance of remnants of the cyst wall 2.
Differential diagnosis
General imaging differential considerations include:
laryngeal oncocytic papillary cystadenoma
suprahyoid thyroglossal duct cyst at the base of tongue or within posterior floor of mouth
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