Clinical Evaluation of 3 patients with Paradoxical Vocal Cord Movement

역설적 성대운동을 보이는 3명의 환자에 대한 임상분석

Background and Objectives : Paradoxical vocal cord movement is a series of paroxysmal adduction of the anterior two-thirds of the vocal cords during respiration or during phonation. The choking, stridor, and wheezing in this condition occur primarily on inhalation, rather than on exhalation. The two pathognomonic diagnostic criterias that need to be assessed during an acute presentation are laryngoscopy with direct visualization of paradoxical adduction of the vocal cords and pulmonary function testing. Materials and Methods : A retrospective review of 3 patients who were referred to otolaryngologist from pulmonology department, and were confirmed by typical laryngoscopic findings with paradoxical adduction of the vocal cords was conducted. Results The patients were misdiagnosed as exercised-induced asthma, and unresponsive to corticosteroid and bronchodilators. Improvement was achieved only by diagnosis with paradoxial vocal cord movement. Biofeed back therapy, voice therapy, treatment for reflux laryngitis improved symptoms. Conclusion The etiology of paradoxical vocal cord movement is unknown. It may be functional or emotional. The functional factors that were proposed are neurologic deficit and gastroesophageal reflux. Management methods of this condition consist of psychological counselling, voice therapy, and antireflux medication.