Atypical expiratory flow volume curve in an asthmatic patient with vocal cord dysfunction

Background: Vocal cord dysfunction can coexist with or masquerade as asthma . Vocal cord dysfunction, when coexistent with asthma, contributes substant ially to the refractory nature of the respiratory problem. Objective: To report a case of an asthmatic patient with vocal cord dysfunc tion and a previously unreported unique expiratory flow volume curve. Results: A 16-year-old female, known to have asthma, developed increased fr equency of her asthma exacerbations. Spirometry, during symptoms, showed an extrathoracic airway obstruction with a reproducible unique abrupt drop an d rise in the expiratory flow volume loop. Laryngoscopy showed adduction of the vocal cords during inspiration and expiration. Conclusions: We report a unique expiratory flow volume curve in an asthmati c with vocal cord dysfunction that resolved with panting maneuvers. Speech and psychological counseling helped prevent future attacks.