Benign Etiological Factors of Hoarseness: Insights from a Tertiary Care Hospital in India

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background: Hoarseness of voice is a common symptom in otolaryngology, ranging from benign to serious causes. The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery reports that nearly one-third of people experience voice problems, with 1 in 13 adults affected annually. While often due to vocal strain or infections, persistent hoarseness beyond two weeks may indicate malignancy.
Aim: To analyze the clinical presentation of patients with hoarseness, focusing on prevalent benign etiologies and associated predisposing conditions.
Methods: This cross-sectional and longitudinal study was conducted over 18 months (January 2024–July 2025). Patients presenting with hoarseness underwent detailed clinical evaluation and diagnostic investigations. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage distributions, supported by SPSS (version 23) and Microsoft Office.
Results: A total of 117 patients were enrolled. Middle-aged groups (31–40 and 51–60 years) showed the highest prevalence. Males (58.97%) outnumbered females (41.03%), yielding a ratio of 1.43:1. Chronic laryngitis was the most frequent cause (26.49%), followed by vocal cord nodules (21.36%) and polyps (13.67%). Less common etiologies included tuberculosis, cysts, and functional voice disorders.
Conclusion: Hoarseness arises from diverse conditions, from mild inflammation to malignancy. Careful history, examination, and appropriate investigations are essential for timely diagnosis and management.