Related Experiment Videos
Paradoxical vocal cord dysfunction in an infant with stridor and gastroesophageal reflux
1University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics, Madison 53792, USA.
Insights
This study reports the youngest infant diagnosed with Paradoxical Vocal Cord Dysfunction (PVCD), linked to gastroesophageal reflux. Early reflux treatment resolved the infant's stridor, suggesting reflux as a key cause for PVCD.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Paradoxical Vocal Cord Dysfunction (PVCD) is a condition characterized by abnormal adduction of the vocal cords during respiration.
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a common condition in infants, involving the retrograde flow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
- Vocal cord dysfunction can be triggered by various factors, including irritants and underlying medical conditions.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old infant presented with intermittent stridor, a high-pitched breathing sound.
- The infant's stridor symptoms were directly associated with gastroesophageal reflux.
- Prompt improvement in stridor was observed following the initiation of GER treatment.
Findings:
- The infant was diagnosed with Paradoxical Vocal Cord Dysfunction (PVCD) secondary to gastroesophageal reflux.
- This case represents the youngest documented patient with PVCD in medical literature.
- The findings suggest a strong etiological link between GER and PVCD in infants.
Implications:
- This case highlights GER as a potential cause of PVCD in very young infants.
- It underscores the importance of considering and treating GER in infants presenting with stridor.
- Further research is warranted to explore the multifaceted etiologies of PVCD in pediatric populations.
Abstract:
This article presents the case history of a 4 month old infant diagnosed with Paradoxical Vocal Cord Dysfunction (PVCD) secondary to gastroesophageal reflux. The child presented with intermittent stridor which responded promptly to treatment of her reflux. This is believed to be the youngest person with PVCD reported in the literature and supports the concept that PVCD may be associated with multiple etiologies.