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 1991 and April 1999 are described. Three children had abductor paralysis, and tracheostomy was required in 1. The fourth child had adductor paralysis and 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 disorders, may occur as a consequence of an underlying chromosomal abnormality, and chromosome studies should be performed in this group of children. Similarly, the possibility of vocal cord dysfunction should be considered in children who are found to have chromosomal abnormalities. A chromosomal abnormality appears to preclude the possibility of early spontaneous improvement in vocal cord function.