ear, nose, and throat disorders
Vocal Cord Paralysis
Diagnosis of Vocal Cord Paralysis
Laryngoscopy Various tests for possible causes Diagnosis of vocal cord paralysis is based on laryngoscopy. The cause must always be sought. Evaluation is guided by abnormalities identified on history and physical examination. During the history, the physician asks about all possible causes of peripheral neuropathy, including chronic heavy metal exposure (arsenic, Lead Poisoning , mercury), drug effects from Cricoarytenoid arthritis, which may cause fixation of the cricoarytenoid joint, must be differentiated from a neuromuscular etiology. Fixation is best documented by absence of passive mobility during rigid laryngoscopy under general anesthesia. Cricoarytenoid arthritis may complicate such conditions as rheumatoid arthritis, external blunt trauma, and prolonged endotracheal intubation. 