Reinke's oedema (polypoid corditis) is characterised by accumulation of oedematous fluid in the Reinke's space. This space is located:
- A Between the epithelium and the vocalis muscle, corresponding to the superficial lamina propria ✓
- B Between the vocalis muscle and the thyroid cartilage
- C In the subglottic space below the cricoid
- D In the paraglottic space lateral to the thyroarytenoid muscle
Correct answer: A. Between the epithelium and the vocalis muscle, corresponding to the superficial lamina propria
Explanation
Reinke's space is the gelatinous potential space between the squamous epithelium of the vocal fold and the underlying vocal ligament, corresponding to the superficial layer of the lamina propria. This loose connective tissue allows the mucosal wave during phonation. In Reinke's oedema (associated with smoking and hypothyroidism), this space fills with viscous oedematous fluid and myxoid material, causing the polypoid, fluid-filled swelling of the vocal fold. Treatment involves microlaryngoscopic evacuation and smoking cessation.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.