The algorithm of examination for patients with unknown etiology unilateral vocal fold paresis in ENT practice

Unilateral vocal fold paresis is a common disease in the practice of the otolaryngologist. The causes of the disorders of the laryngeal innervation are very diverse. Paresis of the larynx can be central or peripheral origin. The clinical manifestations are described in the article. According to the phoniatric division of the Saint Petersburg ENT and Speech Research Institute unilateral vocal fold paresis was diagnosed in 178 out of 2667 patients during 2016. Postoperative vocal fold paresis was diagnosed in 150 patients. The most common cause of surgical trauma was thyroid gland surgery - 117 observations. The article presents the results of the laryngeal videostroboscopy and analysis of prognostically favorable and unfavorable to voice features endoscopic characteristics. Described diseases of the larynx, which is also manifested its immobility, such as tumors of the larynx and pathology of the cricoarytenoid joint. Unknown etiology unilateral vocal fold paresis it is necessary to conduct a full comprehensive examination, the purpose of which is the exclusion of pathology of different organs and systems causing a disorder of the laryngeal innervation.

vocal fold paresis, etiology, differential diagnosis, laryngeal videostroboscopy