Chromosomal abnormalities in idiopathic congenital bilateral vocal cord paralysis

Idiopathic congenital bilateral vocal cord paralysis (BVCP) can occur as an isolated abnormality or as part of a multisystem disorder. The chromosomal abnormalities found in 4 children who presented with idiopathic congenital BVCP in association with other congenital abnormalities between January 19 91 and April 1999 are described. Three children had abductor paralysis, and tracheostomy was required in I. The fourth child had adductor paralysis an d required a feeding gastrostomy for management of aspiration. There was no clinically significant improvement in vocal cord function observed in any child. Idiopathic congenital BVCP. when associated with other congenital di sorders, may occur as a consequence of an underlying chromosomal abnormalit y, and chromosome studies should be performed in this group of children. Si milarly, the possibility of vocal cord dysfunction should be considered in children who are found to have chromosomal abnormalities. A chromosomal abn ormality appears to preclude the possibility of early spontaneous improveme nt in vocal cord function.