Irritable Larynx Syndrome was presented in 1999 as a clinical phenomenon that refers to hypersensitivity symptoms in the larynx (Morrison, Rammage & Emami, 1999). The theoretical pathophysiology that was proposed has since been refined to reflect the supposition that ILS represents a central sensitivity syndrome (CSS), and data was presented that demonstrates a high co-occurrence of ILS with other CSS (Morrison & Rammage, 2010). The ILS theoretical framework resonates well with that proposed for other CSS (Yunus, 2000-2008). Vocal performers are more highly represented in clinical populations than the general census population would predict, when compared with individuals from “less vocal” professions (Titze et al, 1997; PVCRP, unpublished statistics).
We will review ILS theories, symptoms, and treatment. ILS patient databases will be examined for symptom patterns and personal demographics to determine if vocal performers are reflected in the ILS caseload. Possible ILS susceptibility and “immunity” factors for vocal performers will be discussed.
REFERENCES:
Morrison, M. D., Rammage, L. A., & Emami, A. J. (1999). The irritable larynx syndrome. Journal of Voice, 13(3), 447-455.
Morrison, M.D. & Rammage, L.A. (2010) The Irritable Larynx syndrome as a central sensitivity yndrome. CJASLPA-RCOA, 34(4), 282-289.
Titze, I. R., Lemke, J. & Montequin, D. (1997). Populations in the U.S. workforce who rely on voice as a primary tool of trade: A preliminary report. Journal of Voice, 11, 254-259
Yunus, M. B. (2000). Central sensitivity syndromes: a unified concept for fibromyalgia, and other similar maladies. Journal of Indian Rheumatology Association,8, 27-33.
Yunus, M. B. (2005). The concept of central sensitivity syndromes. In: Wallace D. J., & Clauw, D. J., eds. Fibromyalgia and other central syndromes. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, p.29-44.
