Vocal fold paresis - a debilitating and underdiagnosed condition

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Neurology
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Vocal fold paresis presents diagnostic challenges, often with subtle clinical signs.
• Assessing the impact on patient quality of life is crucial for understanding the condition's burden.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical signs of vocal fold paresis using laryngeal videostroboscopy.
• To quantify the quality of life impact on patients with vocal fold paresis.
• To confirm the diagnostic utility of laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) for vocal fold paresis.

Main Methods:

• LEMG was performed on 29 patients with suspected vocal fold paresis.
• Voice Handicap Index 10 (VHI-10) scores were compared between paresis and paralysis groups.
• Laryngeal videostroboscopy was used to identify the side of paresis.

Main Results:

• LEMG confirmed vocal fold paresis in 92.6% of cases, with vocal fold lag being the most common sign.
• The laryngology team correctly predicted the side of paresis in 76% of cases.
• VHI-10 scores did not significantly differ between vocal fold paralysis and paresis groups.

Conclusions:

• Vocal fold paresis significantly affects patients' quality of life.
• LEMG is an important diagnostic tool for vocal fold paresis.
• Investigate vocal fold paresis in patients with persistent dysphonia unresponsive to speech therapy.