← Back to guidelines
Otolaryngology (ENT)99 papers

Adductor spastic dysphonia

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Adductor spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD) is a voice disorder characterized by involuntary spasms of the lateral cricoarytenoid muscles during speech, leading to strained, harsh, and often interrupted vocal quality 1.

Diagnosis

  • Key Diagnostic Criteria: Perceptual evaluation using the GRBAS scale, extended with additional parameters for comprehensive assessment 1.
  • Recommended Tests: Voice assessment by experienced observers using the extended GRBAS system to capture a broader range of symptoms 1.
  • Grading: Utilize cluster analysis to identify distinct voice types within ADSD, aiding in personalized diagnosis 1.
  • Management

  • First-Line Treatments: Botulinum toxin injections targeting the thyroarytenoid muscle to reduce laryngeal muscle spasms 1.
  • Adjunctive Treatments: Voice therapy aimed at modifying vocal behaviors and reducing compensatory strategies 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Limited data; botulinum toxin use should be carefully considered due to potential effects on the fetus 1.
  • Pediatrics: Specific guidelines are lacking; management typically mirrors adult protocols with close monitoring 1.
  • Elderly: Voice therapy may be less effective due to decreased plasticity; botulinum toxin remains a viable option 1.
  • Comorbidities: No specific guidance provided; individualized treatment plans considering overall health status are recommended 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize the extended GRBAS system for perceptual assessment of ADSD to improve diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Consider botulinum toxin injections as a first-line treatment for managing ADSD symptoms (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • Implement voice therapy as an adjunctive treatment to complement pharmacological interventions (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • References

    1 Langeveld TP, Drost HA, Frijns JH, Zwinderman AH, Baatenburg de Jong RJ. Perceptual characteristics of adductor spasmodic dysphonia. The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology 2000. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Perceptual characteristics of adductor spasmodic dysphonia.Langeveld TP, Drost HA, Frijns JH, Zwinderman AH, Baatenburg de Jong RJ The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology (2000)

    HemoChat

    by SPINAI

    Evidence-based clinical decision support powered by SNOMED-CT, Neo4j GraphRAG, and NASS/AO/NICE guidelines.

    ⚕ For clinical reference only. Not a substitute for professional judgment.

    © 2026 HemoChat. All rights reserved.
    Research·Pricing·Privacy & Terms·Refund·SNOMED-CT · NASS · AO Spine · NICE · GraphRAG