POLYPOID DEGENERATION OF THE VOCAL CORD By

4 cases with severe diffuse edematous swelling were reported, which involved the whole of unilateral or bilateral vocal cords. The terminology of this condition was first discussed, since this pathological state as an entity has not yet been fully established here and abroad. Secondary clinical symptoms of each case were presented in detail and examined from various viewpoints, such as age, sex, occupation, drinking and smoking, general conditions, progress, etc. Thirdly with regard to treatment surgical methods were prefered either indirectly by means of laryngoscope or directly through laryngofissure. Conservative treatment was found to be not so effective. Prognosis was good in all cases. Finally the results of histo-pathological examination was given. They were considerably different from the general polyp of the vocal cord and all these 4 cases presented a common feature ...... severe edema (which constitutes a principal lesion) and partially observable slight fibrosis and vascular regeneration. There was no plasma infiltration, fibrinoid deposition. In general, vasodilatation, congestion, thrombus formation and hemorrhage were slightly visible or invisible. Inflammatory cellular infiltration was also of a low degree.