Abstract
The lamina propria of the human vocal fold consists of three morphologically different layers. Previous investigations have revealed age-related changes in the histological structure of this apparatus. The authors tried to define the role of the lamina propria in vocal fold vibration. Using an enzyme-immunohistochemical method, the distribution of three different collagens, type I, type III and type IV in the lamina propria was examined. Type III collagen was found in all lamina propria layers. The majority of type I collagen was found in the deep layer, especially in the anterior and posterior parts of the vocal fold. The localization of each type of collagen was related to the degree of vibratory movements during phonation.
