[Vocal cord dysfunction. An important differential diagnosis to bronchial asthma]

HNO. 2004 Mar;52(3):261-4. doi: 10.1007/s00106-003-1023-7.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is described as a functional disorder of the vocal folds which leads to an intermittent, inspiratory 'paradoxical' glottal closure. We report on three women with frequent repetitive shortness of breath attacks caused by VCD. This was diagnosed by transnasal videofiberendoscopy, with glottal closure being seen during inspiration. Because of the different etiologies, one of the patients was treated with breathing and speech therapy, another received Omeprazol for laryngopharyngeal reflux, and the third was treated by intralaryngeal botulinum toxin injections. All three patients showed a reduction in attacks. Clinically, VCD seems to mimic asthma. However, with a thorough patient history and diagnostics, especially with transnasal laryngoscopy during a (triggered) attack, a precise diagnosis seems possible.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Asthma / diagnosis*
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / administration & dosage
  • Breathing Exercises
  • Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dyspnea / etiology*
  • Electrodiagnosis
  • Exercise Test
  • Female
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / complications
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intramuscular
  • Laryngismus / diagnosis*
  • Laryngoscopy
  • Middle Aged
  • Respiratory Sounds / etiology*
  • Somatoform Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Somatoform Disorders / rehabilitation
  • Video Recording
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis / diagnosis*
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis / rehabilitation

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A