Lateral cricoarytenoid muscle cysts are uncommon lesions that can develop around the muscles of the larynx (voice box). In this guide, we explore the basics of the condition—from the detailed anatomy of the affected area to the various reasons these cysts may appear, how to detect them, and the steps for treatment and prevention.
These are cyst-like swellings that form in or near the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle, a key muscle involved in voice production and airway protection. Although rare, when these cysts form, they may affect voice, breathing, and swallowing.
Why This Matters
-
Voice and Breathing Impact: Since the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is involved in closing the vocal cords (a process needed for speaking and protecting the airway), any cyst in this region could lead to voice changes or breathing difficulties.
-
Detection and Treatment: Knowing the details about the cyst can help with early detection, proper diagnostic evaluation, and management—ranging from conservative measures to surgical treatment.
Anatomy of the Lateral Cricoarytenoid Muscle
Understanding the anatomy is essential because it explains where these cysts occur and how they might affect nearby functions.
Location and Structure
-
Location:
-
The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is located in the larynx, on the side of the cricoid cartilage.
-
It is part of the complex network of muscles that control the movement of the vocal cords.
-
-
Structure:
-
The muscle is a slender band of tissue with a defined origin and insertion, connecting parts of the laryngeal framework.
-
Origin and Insertion
-
Origin:
-
The muscle typically originates from the upper border of the cricoid cartilage.
-
-
Insertion:
-
It inserts into the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage.
-
This placement is critical because it is one of the muscles responsible for closing the vocal folds during phonation (voice production).
-
Blood Supply
-
Key Arteries:
-
The blood comes primarily via branches of the superior thyroid artery or adjacent arteries within the neck.
-
Adequate blood flow is necessary for the health and function of the laryngeal muscles.
-
Nerve Supply
-
Innervation:
-
The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is typically innervated by the recurrent laryngeal nerve, part of the vagus nerve system.
-
This nerve controls many of the muscles involved in voice production and airway protection.
-
Functions (Six Main Functions)
-
Adduction of Vocal Cords:
-
Helps bring the vocal cords together, which is essential for sound production.
-
-
Glottic Closure:
-
Aids in closing the gap between the vocal cords to protect the airway during swallowing.
-
-
Voice Modulation:
-
Plays a role in adjusting the tension and position of the vocal cords, affecting voice pitch and volume.
-
-
Prevention of Aspiration:
-
Ensures that food and liquids do not enter the airway.
-
-
Regulation of Airflow:
-
Contributes to controlling the flow of air during breathing and speaking.
-
-
Support of Laryngeal Structures:
-
Provides structural support, maintaining the framework necessary for efficient vocalization.
-
Types of Lateral Cricoarytenoid Muscle Cysts
While the overall term “cyst” indicates a fluid-filled sac, several types can occur based on their origin and nature:
-
Retention Cysts:
-
Formed when ducts of mucus glands become blocked.
-
-
Inflammatory Cysts:
-
Develop after inflammation due to infection or irritation.
-
-
Congenital Cysts:
-
Present from birth, potentially due to developmental anomalies.
-
-
Epidermoid Cysts:
-
May contain keratinized material from epithelial tissue.
-
-
Laryngoceles:
-
Though not true cysts, they are air-filled sacs that could mimic cysts in imaging and symptoms.
-
-
Other Rare Cystic Lesions:
-
Some cysts may represent unusual presentations related to the laryngeal muscle tissues.
-
Note: Classification systems for laryngeal cysts can vary among studies. A clear diagnosis requires imaging and sometimes pathological evaluation.
Causes of Lateral Cricoarytenoid Muscle Cysts
Below are 20 potential causes or contributing factors that have been associated with cyst formation in the region of the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle:
-
Mucous Retention:
-
Blocked ducts lead to fluid accumulation.
-
-
Chronic Laryngeal Inflammation:
-
Repeated irritation from smoking or pollutants.
-
-
Vocal Overuse:
-
Strain from prolonged singing, shouting, or speaking.
-
-
Infection:
-
Bacterial or viral infections causing local inflammation.
-
-
Trauma:
-
Injury to the neck from accidents or surgery.
-
-
Congenital Malformation:
-
Abnormal development of the laryngeal tissues.
-
-
Autoimmune Conditions:
-
Diseases that cause chronic tissue inflammation.
-
-
Allergic Reactions:
-
Inflammatory responses to allergens.
-
-
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):
-
Acid reflux irritating the laryngeal mucosa.
-
-
Environmental Irritants:
-
Exposure to chemicals, dust, or smoke.
-
-
Iatrogenic Causes:
-
Post-surgical changes or complications from laryngeal procedures.
-
-
Hormonal Imbalances:
-
Changes that might affect mucus production.
-
-
Age-Related Changes:
-
Degeneration of tissues over time.
-
-
Viral Laryngitis:
-
Post-infectious changes following a viral infection.
-
-
Bacterial Laryngitis:
-
Secondary bacterial infections following viral laryngitis.
-
-
Irritant Inhalation:
-
Inhaling toxic fumes or pollutants.
-
-
Chronic Coughing:
-
Pressure changes that may lead to mucosal damage.
-
-
Genetic Predisposition:
-
Inherited tendencies for cyst formation.
-
-
Physical Stress:
-
Strain from activities that stress the laryngeal area.
-
-
Microtrauma:
-
Repeated minor injuries that lead to cumulative tissue changes.
-
Symptoms of Lateral Cricoarytenoid Muscle Cysts
While symptoms vary from person to person, here are 20 symptoms that patients may experience when a cyst forms near the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle:
-
Hoarseness:
-
Changes in voice quality, sounding breathy or strained.
-
-
Voice Fatigue:
-
Tired or weak voice after speaking for extended periods.
-
-
Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia):
-
A feeling of something obstructing the throat during swallowing.
-
-
Throat Pain or Discomfort:
-
Persistent irritation or soreness in the throat area.
-
-
Coughing:
-
A chronic or intermittent cough.
-
-
Stridor:
-
A high-pitched sound when breathing, indicating airway narrowing.
-
-
Breathing Difficulty:
-
Shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion.
-
-
Sensation of a Lump:
-
Feeling like there is a foreign body in the throat.
-
-
Frequent Clearing of the Throat:
-
An urge to clear the throat repeatedly.
-
-
Disruption in Singing or Speaking:
-
Difficulty in maintaining pitch or volume.
-
-
Pain when Speaking:
-
Pain or discomfort during voice use.
-
-
Voice Loss:
-
Partial or complete loss of voice.
-
-
Swelling in the Neck:
-
Visible or palpable swelling in the laryngeal region.
-
-
Irritation After Talking or Singing:
-
Increased symptoms following prolonged vocal use.
-
-
Difficulty Breathing During Sleep:
-
Nocturnal breathing problems or sleep apnea-like symptoms.
-
-
Sensation of Tightness in the Throat:
-
A feeling of constriction or pressure.
-
-
Phonation Instability:
-
Inconsistent or shaky voice quality.
-
-
Reduced Vocal Range:
-
Inability to achieve high or low notes.
-
-
Tickling Sensation:
-
A persistent tickle in the throat.
-
-
General Discomfort in the Neck:
-
Non-specific discomfort or pain in the surrounding neck muscles.
-
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnosing lateral cricoarytenoid muscle cysts usually involves a combination of imaging techniques, endoscopic evaluations, and sometimes lab tests. Here are 20 diagnostic methods that clinicians may use:
-
Laryngoscopy:
-
A procedure using a scope to view the larynx and vocal cords.
-
-
Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscopy:
-
A less invasive method that allows detailed viewing.
-
-
Stroboscopy:
-
Uses light flashes to assess the vocal cord vibrations.
-
-
High-Resolution CT Scan:
-
Detailed imaging of soft tissue structures.
-
-
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
-
Provides clear images of muscles and soft tissues.
-
-
Ultrasound Examination:
-
Helpful in identifying cystic formations near the muscle.
-
-
Direct Laryngoscopy Under Anesthesia:
-
Allows for a more thorough examination during surgery.
-
-
Videostroboscopy:
-
A dynamic evaluation of vocal fold motion.
-
-
Endoscopic Biopsy:
-
Tissue sampling to confirm the cystic nature.
-
-
X-Ray Imaging:
-
May help in assessing the overall structure of the neck.
-
-
Voice Analysis Testing:
-
Objective measurements of voice quality and function.
-
-
Electromyography (EMG):
-
Checks the functioning of the laryngeal muscles.
-
-
Esophagoscopy:
-
Examination of the upper digestive tract if swallowing issues occur.
-
-
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs):
-
To evaluate the overall impact on breathing.
-
-
Blood Tests:
-
Assess for markers of infection or inflammation.
-
-
Thyroid Function Tests:
-
Important if there is suspicion of underlying thyroid disease.
-
-
Endoscopic Ultrasonography:
-
Combines the benefits of endoscopy and ultrasound.
-
-
Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA):
-
May be useful if vascular involvement is suspected.
-
-
Laryngeal Videography:
-
Records movements to help analyze vocal fold dynamics.
-
-
Histopathological Examination:
-
Laboratory analysis of excised tissue for definitive diagnosis.
-
Non-Pharmacological Treatments
For many patients, non-drug measures play a key role in managing or reducing symptoms. Below are 30 treatment options that do not involve medication:
-
Voice Therapy:
-
Work with a speech-language pathologist to learn proper vocal techniques.
-
-
Vocal Rest:
-
Reducing voice use to allow inflammation to subside.
-
-
Hydration:
-
Drinking plenty of water to keep the laryngeal tissues moist.
-
-
Dietary Modifications:
-
Eating softer foods or avoiding irritating foods.
-
-
Humidification:
-
Using a humidifier to moisten dry air.
-
-
Breathing Exercises:
-
Techniques to improve breathing and reduce strain.
-
-
Posture Improvement:
-
Maintaining good posture to ease neck and laryngeal tension.
-
-
Stress Reduction Techniques:
-
Meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to minimize muscle tension.
-
-
Avoiding Smoking:
-
Eliminating tobacco, which irritates the airway.
-
-
Environmental Control:
-
Minimizing exposure to pollutants and allergens.
-
-
Vocal Hygiene Education:
-
Learning practices to protect your voice.
-
-
Lifestyle Changes:
-
Adequate rest, exercise, and reducing exposure to vocal strain.
-
-
Avoidance of Alcohol:
-
Limiting alcohol intake, which can dry out the throat.
-
-
Modified Work Practices:
-
Adjusting work environments for people who use their voice intensively.
-
-
Heat and Cold Therapy:
-
Using warm compresses or cold packs to reduce discomfort.
-
-
Massage Therapy:
-
Gentle neck massage to relieve muscle tension.
-
-
Acupuncture:
-
May help to relieve pain and restore muscle balance.
-
-
Biofeedback:
-
Techniques that train your body to relax the laryngeal muscles.
-
-
Manual Therapy:
-
Physical therapy focusing on the neck and upper airway.
-
-
Avoidance of Vocal Overuse:
-
Scheduling regular breaks during long periods of speaking.
-
-
Use of a Mic or Amplifier:
-
Reducing strain by amplifying the voice in group settings.
-
-
Sound Therapy:
-
Listening to soothing sounds to reduce stress.
-
-
Specialized Breathing Techniques:
-
Training in diaphragmatic breathing for optimal support.
-
-
Ergonomic Adjustments:
-
Ensuring work and home environments support proper posture.
-
-
Education on Laryngeal Care:
-
Understanding and performing daily practices to protect your voice.
-
-
Use of Warm Beverages:
-
Drinking herbal teas to soothe throat irritation.
-
-
Avoiding Caffeine:
-
Reducing caffeine that may contribute to dehydration.
-
-
Self-Massage Techniques:
-
Techniques you can perform at home to relieve tightness in the neck.
-
-
Proper Sleep Hygiene:
-
Maintaining a comfortable sleep environment to promote overall healing.
-
-
Regular Follow-Up Evaluations:
-
Keeping in touch with healthcare providers to monitor the condition.
-
Drug Treatments
In some cases, medications may be used to reduce inflammation, manage infection, or assist in voice stabilization. Here are 20 drugs or drug types that might be considered:
-
Anti-Inflammatory Steroids:
-
Reduce swelling in the laryngeal tissues.
-
-
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
-
To relieve pain and inflammation.
-
-
Antibiotics:
-
If a bacterial infection is suspected.
-
-
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs):
-
For patients with reflux contributing to irritation.
-
-
Antireflux Medications:
-
Such as H2 blockers to minimize acid reflux.
-
-
Local Anesthetics:
-
To temporarily relieve pain during procedures.
-
-
Mucolytics:
-
Helping to thin secretions.
-
-
Corticosteroid Inhalers:
-
For reducing airway inflammation.
-
-
Antiviral Medications:
-
If there’s evidence of viral infection.
-
-
Leukotriene Inhibitors:
-
In cases with inflammatory airway disease.
-
-
Immunomodulators:
-
For autoimmune-related inflammation.
-
-
Antihistamines:
-
If allergies contribute to inflammation.
-
-
Botulinum Toxin Injections (for specific cases):
-
Used in specialized settings to reduce muscle spasm.
-
-
Antispasmodics:
-
To ease involuntary muscle contractions.
-
-
Pain Relievers:
-
Mild analgesics such as acetaminophen.
-
-
Nebulized Medications:
-
Medications delivered directly to the airway.
-
-
Cough Suppressants:
-
In cases where cough is excessively irritating.
-
-
Expectorants:
-
To help clear mucus.
-
-
Anti-Reflux Formulations:
-
Combined formulations to ease both acid reflux and inflammation.
-
-
Adjunctive Herbal or Over-The-Counter Remedies:
-
Under the guidance of a healthcare provider to support throat comfort.
-
Surgical Interventions
When conservative treatment fails or the cyst causes significant problems, surgery may be recommended. Below are 10 surgical options that might be performed:
-
Endoscopic Cyst Excision:
-
Minimally invasive removal using a flexible endoscope.
-
-
Microlaryngoscopy:
-
Allows detailed, magnified view and precise excision.
-
-
Laser-Assisted Surgery:
-
Laser techniques to remove cyst tissue with precision.
-
-
Vocal Fold Suspension Procedures:
-
To support the laryngeal structures during removal.
-
-
Cyst Marsupialization:
-
Creating an opening in the cyst to allow continuous drainage.
-
-
Laryngofissure Procedures:
-
An open surgical approach for extensive lesions.
-
-
Robotic-Assisted Laryngeal Surgery:
-
Using advanced robotics for precise removal.
-
-
Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS):
-
A minimally invasive robot-assisted method.
-
-
Adjunctive Laser Vaporization:
-
To treat surrounding tissue and reduce recurrence.
-
-
Revision Surgeries:
-
For recurrent cases where initial treatment did not fully resolve the cyst.
-
Prevention Strategies
Preventing cyst formation focuses on lifestyle changes, environmental modification, and early intervention. Here are 10 prevention strategies:
-
Maintain Vocal Hygiene:
-
Regular voice care and warm-up exercises.
-
-
Avoid Vocal Overuse:
-
Rest your voice when it’s tired.
-
-
Quit Smoking:
-
Eliminating tobacco reduces irritation.
-
-
Minimize Exposure to Pollutants:
-
Use masks or air purifiers if in polluted areas.
-
-
Manage Reflux:
-
Lifestyle changes and medications to control acid reflux.
-
-
Stay Hydrated:
-
Drink enough fluids to keep the mucosa moist.
-
-
Protect Your Voice at Work:
-
Use amplification devices if you speak or sing for long periods.
-
-
Regular Medical Check-Ups:
-
Early screening for voice disorders and laryngeal issues.
-
-
Healthy Diet:
-
Eat a balanced diet that supports tissue health.
-
-
Stress Management:
-
Reduce stress that may contribute to muscle tension and strain.
-
When to See a Doctor
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications. Consider seeking professional care if you experience:
-
Persistent hoarseness or changes in voice quality lasting more than two weeks.
-
Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of a lump in your throat.
-
Unexplained throat pain or discomfort during talking or singing.
-
Breathing difficulties, shortness of breath, or stridor.
-
Recurring or worsening cough with no clear cause.
-
Any abrupt changes in your ability to speak clearly or project your voice.
Seeing an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can help you receive proper evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are 15 common questions and clear, straightforward answers about lateral cricoarytenoid muscle cysts:
-
What is a lateral cricoarytenoid muscle cyst?
-
It is a fluid-filled sac that forms near the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle in the larynx. These cysts can affect voice and swallowing.
-
-
How common are these cysts?
-
They are relatively rare compared to other laryngeal conditions, and many cases are found incidentally during examinations for voice issues.
-
-
What causes these cysts to form?
-
Causes include chronic inflammation, vocal strain, infections, trauma, and sometimes congenital factors.
-
-
What symptoms should I look out for?
-
Common symptoms include hoarseness, throat discomfort, difficulty swallowing, a persistent cough, and sometimes breathing difficulties.
-
-
How is the cyst diagnosed?
-
Diagnosis usually involves an endoscopic examination of the larynx, imaging tests such as CT or MRI, and sometimes a biopsy or histopathological examination.
-
-
Do these cysts affect my voice?
-
Yes, they can cause voice fatigue, hoarseness, and changes in vocal quality if they interfere with vocal cord function.
-
-
What non-drug treatments are available?
-
Options include voice therapy, vocal rest, hydration, breathing exercises, and lifestyle modifications to reduce laryngeal irritation.
-
-
Can medication help with these cysts?
-
Medications such as anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, or anti-reflux drugs might be used based on the underlying cause.
-
-
When is surgery recommended?
-
Surgery is considered if the cyst causes significant breathing or voice problems, or if it does not respond to conservative treatment.
-
-
What types of surgery might be performed?
-
Procedures range from minimally invasive endoscopic cyst excision to laser-assisted surgery, depending on the cyst’s size and location.
-
-
Are there risks associated with surgery?
-
Like any surgical procedure, risks include infection, bleeding, or temporary changes in voice, but these are minimized with experienced care.
-
-
How can I prevent these cysts from forming?
-
Preventative measures include maintaining good vocal hygiene, managing reflux, avoiding smoking, and protecting your voice from overuse.
-
-
How long does it take to recover from treatment?
-
Recovery depends on the treatment method. Non-pharmacological methods or medications may take weeks, while surgery recovery varies from a few days to several weeks.
-
-
Will my voice return to normal after treatment?
-
Many patients see a significant improvement in voice quality after treatment, although some cases may need ongoing therapy.
-
-
When should I consult an ENT specialist?
-
If you experience persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems, it is important to see an ENT for an evaluation.
-
Conclusion
Lateral cricoarytenoid muscle cysts, though uncommon, are an important condition to understand due to their potential to affect voice and breathing. The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle plays a crucial role in vocal fold movement, and cyst formation in this area can lead to a range of symptoms and complications. By understanding the anatomy, causes, symptoms, and treatment options—from non-pharmacological strategies to surgical interventions—you can be better prepared to address symptoms early and maintain optimal laryngeal health.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Update: April 08, 2025.
