VOCAL CORD DYSFUNCTION ASSOCIATED WITH EXERCISE IN ADOLESCENT GIRLS

Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) has been reported in adolescents only rar ely. Two patients are described whose initial diagnosis was exercise-i nduced bronchospasm (EIB). However, evaluation revealed inspiratory st ridor and flattening of the inspiratory limb of the flow-volume curve. Flexible fiberoptic rhinolaryngoscopy revealed adduction of vocal cor ds during inspiration. Patients were treated with speech therapy and h ave remained free of symptoms. VCD should be considered in adolescents who are unresponsive to treatment for EIB.