Stimmstörungen im Kindesalter

Abstract

Voice disorders in the pediatric population are relatively common. The education of families, teachers and clinical staff on etiology and treatment of pediatric voice disorders have led to greater attention being paid to hoarseness in childhood and improving early detection of pediatric voice disorders. Pediatric voice problems can have a number of causes. Most commonly, childhood dysphonia is caused by vocal fold nodules due vocal ab- and misuse. Other reasons might be congenital laryngeal dysplasia, vocal fold cysts and laryngeal papilloma. Medical examination is necessary in order to initiate appropriate treatment. In the case of vocal fold cysts and laryngeal papilloma, phonosurgery is indicated. Vocal fold nodules should be treated by voice therapy in order to change vocal behaviour. If voice therapy fails, phonosurgical intervention is recommended, since vocal fold nodules can persist into adulthood with a negative impact on voice quality.