Paradoxical Vocal Cord Motion Presaging Bilateral Vocal Cord Paresis in an Infant

Paradoxical vocal cord motion (PVCM) is a condition characterized by inappropriate adduction of the vocal cords during respiration. Usually seen in children and adolescents, PVCM presentation in infants is uncommon. Once thought to be a product of psychiatric disease, there are now several other proposed etiologies including irritant-induced and secondary to neurologic disease. Previous studies showed that the treatment of gastric reflux in this age group leads to a resolution of symptoms. We present a case of PVCM in an infant with hydrocephalus and Chiari II malformation. She received reflux therapy and ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting with two revisions. Despite these interventions, she continued with symptoms and eventually progressed to bilateral vocal cord paralysis (VCP). There is a paucity of literature describing PVCM as a precursor to VCP. Clinicians should be aware that in this population, refractory PVCM may serve as a warning sign for further vocal cord function decline.