Related Experiment Videos
Dysphonia and cervical hyperostosis: a case report
F Salvinelli1, C Marte, L Firrisi
1University Campus Bio-Medico, School of Medicine, ENT Department, Roma, Italy.
Revue De Laryngologie - Otologie - Rhinologie
|January 17, 2004
Summary
A 77-year-old man experienced progressive dysphonia due to cervical osteophytosis compressing the larynx. This case highlights the importance of investigating cervical spine abnormalities in elderly patients with unexplained voice disorders.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Dysphonia, or voice disorder, is common in older adults.
- Causes can range from laryngeal pathologies to neurological conditions.
- Cervical spine abnormalities are rarely considered in the differential diagnosis of dysphonia.
Observation:
- A 77-year-old male presented with a 3-year history of progressive, breathy dysphonia with reduced pitch and loudness.
- Laryngostroboscopy revealed reduced left true vocal cord adduction.
- Radiological imaging identified significant cervical osteophytosis with an anterior osteophytic spur at C6.
Findings:
- The C6 osteophyte caused mild pressure on the thyroid cartilage.
- Barium swallow showed esophageal deviation, and CT confirmed Forestier's disease.
- The findings suggest a direct mechanical link between cervical osteophytosis and the patient's dysphonia.
Implications:
- Unexplained dysphonia in the elderly warrants thorough investigation, including cervical spine imaging.
- Cervical osteophytosis can present as a laryngeal symptom, specifically dysphonia.
- Early diagnosis of cervical osteophytosis can prevent potential complications and guide appropriate management.