Clinicopathological Study of Hoarseness of Voice in A Tertiary Care Centre

Background: Voice production, a complex process involving the vocal folds, is crucial for communication. Hoarseness, a common symptom of voice disorders, can result from a variety of causes, both acute and chronic. Identifying the underlying causes is vital, especially in patients relying on their voice professionally. This study aims to explore the etiology and demographic distribution of hoarseness in patients attending a tertiary care center. Methodology: A prospective study was conducted in the Department of ENT at People’s College of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bhopal, from November 2022 to March 2024. A total of 120 patients above the age of 10 years presenting with hoarseness were examined using indirect laryngoscopy and 70-degree endoscopy. Detailed histories, clinical examinations, and relevant investigations were performed to determine the underlying causes of hoarseness. Results: The study included 120 patients, with a nearly equal gender distribution (59 males, 61 females). The most affected age group was 31-50 years (47.5%). The most common diagnosis was laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in 37.5% of patients, followed by vocal cord nodules (19.2%), polyps (14.2%), and malignancy (12.5%). Laryngoscopic findings revealed bilateral vocal cord nodules and diffuse hyperemia as the most common abnormalities, each found in 19.2% of patients. LPR was more prevalent among unemployed individuals, while nodules were more common in semi-professional occupations. Conclusion: Hoarseness of voice has a varied etiology, with LPR emerging as the leading cause in this study, particularly among individuals with sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits. Vocal cord nodules and polyps were also significant contributors, often associated with voice abuse. The study highlights the need for early diagnosis and intervention to prevent complications, especially in professional voice users.