Korean J Pediatr.  2004 May;47(5):574-578.

A Case of Vocal Cord Dysfunction

• Her JA
• Choi HK
• Son CH
• Ahn YM

Abstract

Vocal cord dysfunction is a recently described entity in which paradoxical adduction of the vocal cords produces airflow obstruction at the level of the larynx. Recurrent wheezing results, which may imitate asthma. Inspiratory closure of the cords can also cause stridor, commonly misdiagnosed as an upper airway obstruction of undefined cause. The acute presentation is often dramatic and has led to inappropriate treatment, including intubation, tracheotomy, or high doses of steroids. We present the case of a 9 yr old boy with allergic rhinitis who was referred to us for the evaluation of wheezing and dyspnea which did not respond to asthma management. Pulmonary function tests had abnormal inspiratory phases and laryngoscopy revealed typical adduction of the vocal cord during inspiration. Psychological tests suggested anxiety and tension with repressed aggression. There have been no further episodes, possibly due to counseling and education of relaxed throat breathing as well as avoidance of inhaled medication.

Keyword

Vocal cord dysfunction; Asthma; Spirometry; Laryngoscopy

MeSH Terms

Aggression
Airway Obstruction
Anxiety
Asthma
Counseling
Dyspnea
Education
Humans
Intubation
Laryngoscopy
Larynx
Male
Pharynx
Psychological Tests
Respiration
Respiratory Function Tests
Respiratory Sounds
Rhinitis
Spirometry
Steroids
Tracheotomy
Vocal Cord Dysfunction*
Vocal Cords*
Steroids