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Spasmodic Dysphonia: A Review. Part 1: Pathogenic Factors
Justin M Hintze1, Christy L Ludlow2, Stephen F Bansberg3
11 Head and Neck Regeneration Program, Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Spasmodic dysphonia, a laryngeal dystonia, may stem from complex interactions of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Future research may improve diagnosis through neurophysiological assessments.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Spasmodic dysphonia is a task-specific focal laryngeal dystonia causing voice breaks.
- Its pathogenesis remains poorly understood, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in identifying factors contributing to spasmodic dysphonia pathogenesis.
- To explore potential etiological factors and neurological underpinnings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library.
- Keywords included "spasmodic dysphonia," "laryngeal dystonia," and terms related to etiology and pathogenesis.
Main Results:
- Spasmodic dysphonia affects females in their 40s; vocal tremor is common.
- Risk factors include family history of neurological disorders, viral illness, and heavy voice use.
- Neurological consequences involve loss of cortical inhibition, sensory disturbances, and laryngeal motor control differences.
Conclusions:
- A complex interplay of factors likely contributes to spasmodic dysphonia pathogenesis.
- Diagnosis often relies on clinical assessment, but neurophysiological measures may offer future diagnostic adjuncts.
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