Does Pepsin Play a Role in Etiology of Laryngeal Nodules?

摘要

Objectives. Vocal fold nodules (VFNs) are benign disorders affecting the superficial lamina propria of the true vocal folds. The etiology of VFNs still remains unclear but laryngeal trauma caused by vocal abuse, tobacco, alcohol, and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) plays a crucial role on the pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of pepsin in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FEPE) specimens of VFNs to evaluate the role of LPR as a risk factor for VFNs.