PRESENCE OF DYSPHONIA IN INDIVIDUALS WITH TOURETTE’S SYNDROME

Abstract

Professionals working in the field of voice disorders have come to
recognize the variability of vocal qualities in different populations.
While voice disorders can be of organic, neurogenic, or functional
etiology, concomitant disorders often directly impact the vocal
features. Such a disorder is Tourette’s Syndrome which is an impairment
characterized by motor and vocal tics. This study examined
the prevalence of voice disorders in individuals with Tourette’s
Syndrome. Research was conducted over the duration of two years
with clientele aged 15;2 to 26;5. Participants were receiving continuous
treatment from a team of neurologist and psychologist at
private clinics situated around a suburban area. Two case studies
consisting of 1-2 individuals were also closely examined to further
distinguish the types of voice disorders present given the severity of
motor and vocal tics. Instrumental and perceptual analysis was
obtained to accurately diagnose the voice disorder. Given the
sample of participants, presence of spasmodic dysphonia and
falsetto were noted. Results of this study indicates a strong presence
of dysphonia in individuals with Tourette’s Syndrome, particularly
spasmodic dysphonia and falsetto. Additionally, dysphonic vocal
qualities were irrelevant to the existence of vocal tics. Further
research with this population is mandated to determine assessment
and treatment strategies