Spasmodic dysphonia

Disease Overview

Spasmodic dysphonia is a disease caused by involuntary movements of one or more muscles of the voice box (larynx). Signs and symptoms may range from occasional difficulty saying a word or two to substantial difficulty speaking that interferes with communication. Spasmodic dysphonia causes the voice to have a tight, strained, or strangled quality. While the cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown, some researchers think it might be caused by problems with the basal ganglia in the brain.[2473]

Some cases of spasmodic dysphonia occur along with other diseases that affect the nervous system such as movement disorders. Spasmodic dysphonia may be inherited, or it may occur after a trauma to the voice box such as an injury or a severe cold. Diagnosis of spasmodic dysphonia is based on an exam by a multidisciplinary team, including an otolaryngologist. This exam may include a videolaryngostroboscopy. Treatment may include surgery, Botox injections, and speech therapy.[2473] 

Synonyms

• Abductor spasmodic dysphonia (type)
• Mixed spasmodic dysphonia (type)
• Adductor spasmodic dysphonia (type)
• Laryngeal dyskinesia
• Laryngeal dystonia
• Spastic dysphonia