[Analysis of misdiagnosis of laryngeal tuberculosis: a report of 16 cases].

OBJECTIVE

To further understand the clinical features of laryngeal tuberculosis and to reduce the rate of misdiagnosis.

METHODS

Sixteen cases of laryngeal tuberculosis from Feb. 1998 to Aug 2006 were retrospectively studied. The clinical features and the causes underlying misdiagnosis were analyzed.

RESULTS

The disease was more common in the elderly. The clinical manifestations of the infection were various and atypical. The lesions commonly involved the vocal cord (12/16 cases). Local manifestations were mainly proliferation lesions such as mass and granulation.

CONCLUSION

Attention should be paid to the clinical features of laryngeal tuberculosis. Thorough examination should be carried out and early biopsy can avoid misdiagnosis.