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Vocal cord paralysis following child abuse
1Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Otolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Cincinnati, OH 45229.
Summary
Child abuse can cause vocal cord paralysis in children, a rare but serious condition. Early recognition of this link is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of abused children with head trauma or strangulation injuries.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Child Abuse Pediatrics
- Forensic Medicine
Background:
- Otorhinologic manifestations of child abuse are rarely documented.
- Vocal cord paralysis is an uncommon but significant injury that can occur in abused children.
- Understanding the pathophysiology is key to recognizing this association.
Observation:
- Presents three pediatric cases of vocal cord paralysis linked to child abuse.
- Highlights the connection between head trauma, strangulation, and vocal cord injury.
- Emphasizes the need for clinical suspicion in evaluating such cases.
Findings:
- Vocal cord paralysis can be a direct consequence of physical abuse, including strangulation.
- The pathophysiology involves trauma to the recurrent laryngeal nerve or its central control.
- Delayed diagnosis can result from under-recognition of this specific injury pattern.
Implications:
- Clinicians must consider child abuse in cases of unexplained vocal cord paralysis in children.
- Prompt diagnosis facilitates appropriate medical and legal interventions.
- Increased awareness can improve outcomes for abused children suffering from this condition.
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