Hoarseness misattributed to reflux: sources and patterns of error.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify voice disorders commonly misidentified as reflux and sources of such misattribution.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

METHODS

Twenty-six patients carrying a diagnosis of reflux alone presenting for second-opinion evaluation were identified from among 381 new patients presenting with a chief complaint of hoarseness over an 8-month period. Patients specifically referred for further workup were excluded.

RESULTS

Average duration of reflux treatment was 10.6 +/- 9.0 weeks. In no case was reflux alone the cause of hoarseness. Eleven (42%) had phonotraumatic lesions, 9 (34%) had neurologic disorders, 5 (19%) had age-related changes, and I (4%) was infectious. Twenty-two (85%) abnormalities were diagnosed by dynamic laryngeal examination with improved optics, including stroboscopy. Only 4 (15%) represented disorders routinely diagnosed with flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy.

CONCLUSION

Hoarse patients with no apparent cause for dysphonia other than reflux after flexible laryngoscopy, or who fail to improve with appropriate treatment, may benefit from further laryngeal investigation rather than continued empiric treatment or further reflux evaluation.