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Severe upper airway obstruction in essential tremor presenting as asthma
J L Izquierdo-Alonso1, P Martínez-Martín, M A Juretschke-Moragues
1Pneumology Department, Hospital Universitario de Getafe, Madrid, Spain.
The European Respiratory Journal
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Essential tremor patients can experience functional upper airway obstruction, mimicking asthma symptoms. Accurate diagnosis via fibreoptic bronchoscopy is crucial for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Neurology
Background:
- Essential tremor (ET) is a common neurological disorder.
- Patients with ET may present with atypical respiratory symptoms.
- Misdiagnosis of respiratory conditions can lead to inappropriate treatment.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male with ET reported 2 years of episodic dyspnea and wheezing.
- Bronchial asthma was diagnosed, and beta-blockers like propranolol were avoided.
- Flow-volume loops demonstrated inconsistent and variable airflow limitations.
Findings:
- Functional upper airway obstruction was confirmed using fibreoptic bronchoscopy.
- The patient's respiratory symptoms were attributed to this condition, not asthma.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering non-respiratory causes for wheezing and dyspnea in ET patients.
- Emphasizes the need for precise diagnosis to guide appropriate therapeutic strategies.
- Suggests that functional airway obstruction may be an underrecognized manifestation in essential tremor.