A case of superior laryngeal nerve paresis and psychogenic dysphonia

A psychogenic voice disorder co-occurred or evolved with the symptoms and signs of unilateral superior laryngeal nerve paresis. We speculated that the former was a manifestation of a musculoskeletal tension or conversion reaction disorder, whereas the latter was a sequela to a self-limiting inflammatory process. Voice therapy proved effective for alleviating the psychogenic dysphonia after the signs of the neuropathy had resolved, whereas psychotherapy offered strategies for stress management. A multidisciplinary approach to this patient provided for differential diagnosis and efficacious treatment.