Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 31, 2026

Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing
07:45

Minimally Invasive Murine Laryngoscopy for Close-Up Imaging of Laryngeal Motion During Breathing and Swallowing

Published on: December 1, 2023

Persistent hoarseness - a case study

Jennifer Morrison1

  • 1GPSynergy, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia. jenniferlmorrison@gmail.com

Australian Family Physician
|July 12, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Persistent hoarseness in a 48-year-old woman was linked to recent respiratory infections and asthma exacerbations. This case highlights the importance of considering underlying conditions when evaluating prolonged vocal symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • General Medicine
  • Otolaryngology
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • A 48-year-old university lecturer experienced persistent hoarseness.
  • The hoarseness duration was 4-5 weeks.
  • This followed a history of recurrent respiratory issues.

Observation:

  • The patient had two prolonged episodes of bacterial sinusitis over 5 months.
  • She also had an infective exacerbation of her asthma.
  • Both conditions required extended antibiotic and oral prednisone treatment.

Findings:

  • Each episode was associated with transient hoarseness.
  • The persistent hoarseness suggests a potential link to the recent infections and treatments.
  • Further investigation may be needed to determine the exact cause of the prolonged vocal changes.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the need to consider recent infectious or inflammatory conditions when evaluating persistent hoarseness.
  • It highlights the potential impact of recurrent sinusitis and asthma exacerbations on vocal health.
  • Further research could explore the direct and indirect effects of such conditions and their treatments on the larynx.

More Related Videos

A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)12:43

A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Published on: February 21, 2011

Related Concept Videos

Larynx01:21

Larynx

The human larynx, often referred to as the voice box, is an intricate organ located in the neck. It serves as a pathway for air to enter the lungs during respiration and is an essential component of voice production.
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation01:31

Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation

In assessing respiratory abnormalities, palpation and auscultation are critical tools for detecting and interpreting various pathophysiological changes. These techniques provide insight into underlying disorders by evaluating tactile sensations and sounds produced by the respiratory system.
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
Chronic Pharyngitis01:23

Chronic Pharyngitis

Chronic pharyngitis refers to persistent inflammation of the pharyngial mucosa.
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract IV: Auscultation01:28

Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract IV: Auscultation

Auscultation is a crucial component of the physical assessment of the respiratory tract. It offers valuable insights into airflow through the bronchial tree and potential lung obstructions. This process involves careful listening to breath, voice, and adventitious sounds, which can reveal a wealth of information about a patient's respiratory health.
Breath Sounds
Breath sounds are categorized into vesicular, bronchovesicular, and bronchial.
Trachea01:22

Trachea

The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a vital part of the human respiratory system. It serves as a passageway for air to travel between the larynx and the bronchi, allowing oxygen to reach the lungs. Let's explore its anatomical features, dimensions, layers of the tracheal wall, associated muscles, and the functions of its parts.
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of the...
Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure01:25

Tracheostomy Care II: Procedure

Tracheostomy care is an essential nursing skill that involves cleaning and maintaining a tracheostomy tube to prevent infection and other complications. Here's a step-by-step guide explaining each procedure with its rationale. Note that disposable gloves are to be worn at all times and changed as often as needed to maintain a sterile work environment, and to protect both patient and healthcare worker.
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene, and put on personal protective equipment: gown, gloves, mask and...