[Laryngeal contact granuloma--a psychosomatic disorder?].

In a multidimensional design using the hypothesis of a psychosomatic genesis, 28 patients (1 female, 27 male) showed, in their personality profile, increased scores in 'impulsiveness', 'emotionality (neuroticism)', 'strain' and 'inhibition'. In addition to the voice disorders other somatic symptoms were observed, especially general symptoms as dysthymia, depression and excessive vegetative stimulation. Their social competence was reduced by the fear of making contacts and the inability 'to say no'. Also psychosocial stress factors were registered due to loss of a loved one with feelings of an existential danger. Thus, contact granuloma can be considered as a secondary reaction to a specific combination of personal disposition and social life situation. Lastly a causal model is presented, which can be used as a diagnostic criterion.