Laryngocele: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Laryngocele?
An otolaryngologist, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, usually treats a laryngocele. This is a rare pouch that forms in the voice box. A surgeon with ENT training does the surgery when it is needed. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is a laryngocele?
A laryngocele is a rare, noncancerous widening of the laryngeal saccule. The saccule is a small pouch inside the voice box, also called the larynx. In a laryngocele, this pouch holds air, fluid, or both.
A laryngocele may be present from birth or may develop later in life. It is usually on one side. Doctors group laryngoceles by where they sit. An internal laryngocele stays inside the voice box. An external one extends into the tissue of the neck. A combined one has both parts.
Symptoms
Many laryngoceles cause no symptoms. When symptoms do happen, they depend on the type. Common signs are hoarseness and swelling in the neck.
An internal laryngocele may also cause:
- Cough or sore throat.
- Trouble swallowing.
- Noisy, high-pitched breathing, called stridor.
An external laryngocele often shows up as a neck lump that can be pressed flat. Coughing or holding your breath may make the lump bigger. A combined laryngocele can cause signs of both types. If the laryngocele fills with mucus and becomes infected, it is called a laryngopyocele. This can block the airway.
Causes and who gets it
The exact cause is not clear. Three main ideas exist. A laryngocele may be present from birth. It may come from higher pressure in the voice box. It may also come from a blockage of the opening of the ventricle of Morgagni, a small space in the voice box.
A laryngocele that appears later can happen when a tumor or scar blocks that opening. The condition is more common in men than in women. It usually happens in men over 50. Some studies link laryngoceles with cancer of the voice box, but this link is debated.
How doctors diagnose it
Imaging tests help doctors diagnose a laryngocele and find its type, location, and size. A laryngocele can also be seen during laryngoscopy, an exam that uses a thin scope to look at the voice box.
A CT scan, a detailed X-ray picture, is the most precise imaging method. An MRI, which uses magnets to make pictures, can show the edges of the laryngocele and how it relates to a membrane in the neck. If a tumor may also be present, MRI is the best method to get more accurate information. Ultrasound of the neck can give a first look at a neck lump.
Treatment
Surgery is the first-line treatment for diagnosed cases. The type of surgery depends on the size and type of the laryngocele.
Small internal laryngoceles can be removed through the mouth. Larger internal, external, or combined ones have traditionally been treated with surgery through the neck. In recent years, treatment through the mouth with a microscope and a laser has become more popular. Surgery through the neck sometimes needs a tracheotomy, a surgical opening in the windpipe that helps with breathing.
A small number of infected laryngoceles (laryngopyoceles) have cleared with antibiotics alone. In most cases, surgery is still the most successful treatment.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have hoarseness that does not go away or swelling in your neck. These are the most common signs of a laryngocele.
A laryngocele is not cancer, but it can sometimes cause a sudden airway emergency. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have difficulty breathing or are choking.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can look at your symptoms, arrange tests, and refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist for scoping and surgery.
Common questions
Is a laryngocele cancer?
No, a laryngocele is a noncancerous (benign) condition. Some studies link it with cancer of the voice box, but this link is debated.
How is a laryngocele treated?
Surgery is the first-line treatment for diagnosed cases. The type of surgery depends on the size and type of the laryngocele.
Can a laryngocele be dangerous?
Yes, it can be, even though it is noncancerous. It may sometimes appear as an airway emergency that threatens life.
Who gets a laryngocele?
A laryngocele is rare, and it is seen more often in men than in women. It usually happens in men over 50.
Can a laryngocele be present from birth?
Yes, it may be present from birth or may develop later in life.
Sources
- National Library of Medicine (PMC) - Laryngocele: Report of two rare cases and review of the literature
- National Library of Medicine (PMC) - Treatment of Laryngoceles: What Is the Progress over the Last Two Decades?
- National Library of Medicine (PMC) - Systematic review of laryngocele and pyolaryngocele management in the age of robotic surgery
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
