[Idiopathic recurrent paralysis. Retrospective analysis of 67 cases]

Sometimes incorrectly termed paralyses, idiopathic abnormalities of laryngeal movement pose many problems about their physiopathological mechanism and treatment. In an analysis of 67 cases, the outcome as far as the voice was concerned was favourable in 51 cases, but a return to normal mobility occurred in only 26 cases. An important factor is the delay before treatment is instituted. In addition to repeated investigation of the areas of ENT, neurology, chest and speech therapy, laryngeal electromyography can yield useful information, and should always be undertaken before surgery is advised. As long as the clinical conditions remains unimproved, the question of its idiopathic nature must be constantly reviewed. A multicentre standardised investigation into this condition would seem desirable to shed further light on its pathology and outcome.