%A Okhakhu, A %A Emma-Nzekwue, N %T Pattern of persistent hoarseness at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital %9 Original Article %D 2015 %J Archives of International Surgery %R 10.4103/2278-9596.158817 %P 69-73 %V 5 %N 2 %U https://www.archintsurg.org/article.asp?issn=2278-9596;year=2015;volume=5;issue=2;spage=69;epage=73;aulast=Okhakhu %8 April 1, 2015 %X Background: Hoarseness refers to a change in voice quality that can impair a patient's quality of life and is usually subject to misdiagnosis. It is sometimes a pointer to a more sinister pathology especially when it is unremitting. This study seeks to establish the pattern of hoarseness as seen at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. Patients and Methods: A prospective review of all new consecutive patients who presented with complaints of hoarseness to the Ear, Nose, and Throat Department of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital from January 2012 to September 2013. The instruments used were a proforma, laryngoscopy, and biopsy where applicable. Histopathological examination of biopsied specimens and treatment outcome were the variables. Results: A total of 75 patients, 51 (68%) males and 24 (32%) females giving M:F ratio of 2:1, were seen during the period of the study. Their age ranged from 7-78 years with a mean age of 47 years. A large proportion of the patients presented for otolaryngologic review more than 24 months after the onset of symptoms. Thirty-three (44%) patients used alcohol while 14 (18.7%) smoked cigarettes. Malignant conditions were responsible for hoarseness in 25 (33.3%) while benign 22 (29.3%) and inflammatory or infective conditions 24 (32%) and vocal cord paralysis 4 (5.3%) were also common. Conclusion: The causes of hoarseness vary from benign to malignant lesions. The observed delay in laryngoscopy portend poorer outcome for patients with malignant diseases. %0 Journal Article %I Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications %@ 2278-9596