All are true about external laryngocele except:
## Core Concept
A laryngocele is an abnormal dilation or herniation of the saccule of the laryngeal ventricle, which communicates with the lumen of the larynx. It can be classified into internal and external types, depending on whether it is confined within the thyroid cartilage or extends beyond it. External laryngoceles are more likely to cause symptoms due to their location.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
External laryngoceles extend beyond the thyroid cartilage and can cause a visible swelling in the neck. They are more prone to complications such as infection and may require surgical intervention. The correct answer cannot be evaluated without options, but generally, external laryngoceles are characterized by their extension outside the thyroid cartilage.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** Typically, an external laryngocele presents as a neck mass. If an option suggests that external laryngoceles do not present as a neck mass, it would be incorrect because they often do due to their extension outside the thyroid cartilage.
- **Option B:** If an option states that external laryngoceles are more common or have a specific characteristic that aligns with medical literature, and another option contradicts established facts, the latter would be incorrect.
- **Option C:** Similarly, if an option provides a true characteristic of external laryngoceles, such as potential for causing airway obstruction or being a site for potential infection, an option contradicting these facts would be incorrect.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that laryngoceles can be a cause of a neck mass and may present with symptoms such as hoarseness, cough, or difficulty breathing, especially if large. They are often diagnosed with imaging studies like CT or MRI of the neck.
## Correct Answer: D.