Pediatric bilateral benign vocal fold lesions (Fujiki, 2022)

Purpose: This study describes a clinical case of benign bilateral vocal fold lesions in a 4-year-old boy. Acoustic, aerodynamic, auditory-perceptual, and stroboscopic evaluations are described, and the outcomes of intervention are reported.

Method: Methodology for acoustic, aerodynamic, auditory-perceptual, and stroboscopic data collection and analysis are described.

Results/Conclusions: This patient presented to the clinic with bilateral vocal fold lesions resulting in moderate dysphonia characterized by breathiness, roughness, and vocal strain. Acoustic measures supported auditory-perceptual assessment indicating that vocal quality was moderately dysphonic, and aerodynamic measures suggested vocal hyperfunction. Stroboscopic evaluation was limited due to patient’s age; however, reduced vocal fold oscillation and hourglass glottic closure were observed. Therapeutic probes indicated that the patient was a good candidate for voice therapy, and a course of six sessions was completed. Repeat evaluation indicated improvements in auditory-perceptual and acoustic voice measures.

Supplemental Material S1. Baseline recording of sustained vowels.

Supplemental Material S2. Baseline recording of CAPE-V sentences and spontaneous speech.

Supplemental Material S3. Baseline halogen and stroboscopic exam.

Supplemental Material S4. Posttherapy recording of CAPE-V sentences.

Supplemental Material S5. Posttherapy halogen and stroboscopic exam.

Fujiki, R. B. (2022). Clinical case study: Pediatric bilateral benign vocal fold lesions. Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1044/2022_PERSP-22-00150

Publisher Note: This article is part of the Forum: Case Studies in Pediatric Voice.