What is Reinke's edema?
Swelling from Fluid Accumulation in Reinke's Space
Reinke's edema is the build-up of a gelatinous substance in the layer right underneath the surface lining of the vocal folds (superficial lamina propria or Reinke's space). It may occur in one or both vocal folds.
Reinke's Space Is Not an "Empty Space"
The
superficial lamina propria, or Reinke's space, is not an empty space.
It has a defined structure made up of cells, special fibers, and
substances made by cells. (For more information, see Anatomy & Physiology of Voice Production.)
The
superficial lamina propria (Reinke's space) plays an important role in
the vibration of vocal folds, which is a key element in sound
production. |
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| Vocal Folds with Reinke's Edema – Closed |
Normal Vocal Folds – 95% Closed |
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Vocal folds (vf) with Reinke's Edema in closed position show increased size and volume; arrow indicates midline.
Note: Vocal fold length matched in magnification to normal vocal folds |
Normal vocal folds (vf) in almost fully closed position show normal size and volume. |
Legend: Viewed from above with person facing examiner, vf, vocal folds; R, patient's right; L, left, back and front of voice box.
(click photos for larger images)
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How does Reinke's Edema affect voice?
Vocal fold vibration is critical for production of sound during
speaking or singing. Reinke's space, or superficial lamina propria,
plays a key role in vocal fold vibration. Along with the lining cover,
Reinke's space undergoes a wave-like motion, or "mucosal wave,"
during speaking or singing. Any change in shape, volume, flexibility,
composition, and/or consistency of this layer results in voice changes.
Voice changes are usually described as: hoarse, raspy, low voice quality, as well as decrease in loudness (volume), and difficulties in how high/low a voice can reach (voice range).
 Key Information
- Reinke's edema is sometimes incorrectly indentified as:
- Laryngeal polyp
- Polypoid corditis
- Vocal fold edema
- Smoker's laryngitis
- Chronic laryngitis
- The conditions listed above are distinct and can sometimes present at the same time as Reinke's Edema.
- Careful examination is necessary to arrive at the correct medical diagnosis.
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