Pathogenic Role of Reinke's Edema in Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the association between vocal fold Reinke's edema, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea.

Design/methods: Twenty-five patients diagnosed with Reinke's edema and 25 patients with normal laryngeal examination, matched according to age, gender, and body mass index were recruited for this prospective study. Demographic data included age, gender, and body mass index. All patients filled the Berlin Questionnaire, STOP-BANG Sleep Apnea Questionnaire, and the Epworth Sleepiness Questionnaire.

Results: Out of 25 patients with Reinke's edema, 36% had Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as evidenced by having two or more positive categories in the Berlin Questionnaire. In the control group, only 4% had OSA.The difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P value = 0.005). With respect to Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the STOP-BANG Sleep Apnea Questionnaire (P value > 0.05), there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusions: This investigation revealed higher prevalence of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea in patients with Reinke's edema as evidenced by the Berlin Questionnaire. The caring physician should be alert to symptoms of airway obstruction for possible early intervention.

Keywords: Berlin Questionnaire; Obstructive sleep apnea; Reinke's edema; Snoring; Vocal fold pathology.