Noncancerous growths of the epithelium (mucous membrane covering) on the surface of the vocal cords. The vocal cords are folds of mucous membrane draped over a ligament and muscle that extend from the wall of the larynx (voice box). The nodules are usually located on both sides of the vocal cords. The most common symptom is hoarseness and, possibly, a breathy sound to the voice. The nodules are the result of irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane.