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Aphthous laryngitis: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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Aphthous laryngitis manifests itself as a rash on the mucous membrane of the pharynx and larynx of small superficial erosions covered with fibrinous plaque, initially yellowish, then gray, surrounded by a bright red border. In the larynx, these rashes are localized almost exclusively on the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds. At the same time, the same rashes appear on the mucous membrane of the cheeks, palatine arches and soft palate. The rashes last up to 2 weeks, then disappear through suppuration and drying, leaving no traces. Relapses may occur at various intervals, with each subsequent relapse occurring in a milder form than the previous one.
Since the mucous membrane of the larynx itself (glottis) remains intact, this form of laryngitis is not accompanied by breathing problems and dysphonia, but dysphagia and pain when swallowing are observed, since the epiglottis and arytenoid cartilages participate in the swallowing act, performing the locking function of the larynx.
Aphthous stomatopharyngolaryngitis is observed in people suffering from neurovegetative dystopia, hormonal disorders, allergies and vitamin deficiency. If aphthous laryngitis is accompanied by a temperature reaction, then a viral disease should be suspected.
Aphthous laryngitis is differentiated from herpes, which is characterized by group vesicular eruptions, and from secondary syphilis, which does not cause pain when swallowing.
Treatment of aphthous laryngitis: multivitamins, locally - lubrication of aphthous rashes with 3-5% silver nitrate solution, 3% iodine solution in glycerin, 1% methylene blue solution. To prevent pain, spray anesthesin or 1-5% cocaine solution.
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