PT Journal AU Galdi, E Perfetti, L Pagella, F Bertino, G Ferrari, M Moscato, G TI Irritant vocal cord dysfunction at first misdiagnosed as reactive airway dysfunction syndrome SO Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health PD 6VL PY 2005 BP 224 EP 226 IS 3 DI 10.5271/sjweh.873 WP https://www.sjweh.fi/show_abstract.php?abstract_id=873 DE case report; diagnosis; irritant vocal cord dysfunction; misdiagnosis; occupational asthma; reactive airway dysfunction syndrome SN 0355-3140 AB '

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OBJECTIVE ': 'This report describes a case of vocal cord dysfunction at first misdiagnosed as reactive airway dysfunction syndrome (RADS).

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METHODS ': 'A woman developed recurrent episodes of cough, dyspnea, and wheezing unresponsive to asthma therapy after irritant exposure to glutaraldehyde. Direct laryngoscopy was performed immediately after the induction of symptoms.

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RESULTS ': 'Laringoscopy showed a paradoxical adduction of the vocal cord on inspiration. Vocal cord dysfunction was diagnosed.

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CONCLUSIONS ': 'A case of vocal cord dysfunction occurred after exposure to glutaraldheyde in a person with a history highly suggestive of RADS. Vocal cord dysfunction should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with acute respiratory symptoms after exposure to irritants and with asthma-like symptoms that fail to respond to conventional asthma therapy.

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