Distonía laríngea post COVID-19: reporte de dos casos y posible explicación fisiopatogénica

La distonía laríngea (DL), también conocida como disfonía espasmódica, es un desorden focal tarea-específico del movimiento, que afecta primariamente la producción de la voz. Los movimientos distónicos de las cuerdas vocales producen fenómenos diferentes, especialmente quiebres o interrupciones vocales y tensión en el tipo de distonía laríngea aductora (DLAD), e interrupciones y soplo o segmentos áfonos en el tipo abductor (DLAB). Más del 80% de pacientes sufren de DLAD o DEAD (disfonía espasmódica aductora). Dos pacientes de sexo femenino desarrollaron DL un mes después de haber contraído una infección del tracto respiratorio superior causada por COVID-19. Ambas presentaron distonía laríngea de tipo aductor. En el análisis acústico de la vocal /a/ sostenida se han observado quiebres o interrupciones, cambios frecuenciales y aperiodicidad. El rango de habla fue estudiado en ambas pacientes mediante el fonetograma, dando un resultado alterado. Posiblemente la inflamación de los nervios periféricos de la laringe, causada por COVID-19, produjo una alteración sensitiva con una respuesta mal adaptativa en estas pacientes con una base genética quizás predisponente. O la activación inmunológica, o la invasión del germen a través de la vía retrógrada alteraron las redes neuronales involucradas en la génesis de la DL.

Laryngeal dystonia (LD), also known as spasmodic dysphonia, is a task-specific focal movement disorder, primarily affecting voice production. The dystonic movements of the vocal folds result in a varied phenomenology, typically hard vocal breaks and strain in the adductor-type laryngeal dystonia (ADLD), and breathy breaks or aphonia in the abductor-type laryngeal dystonia (ABLD). More than 80% of patients have suffered from ADLD. Two female patients developed LD a month after presenting an upper respiratory tract infection by COVID-19. They had the adductor-type laryngeal dystonia. Through the acoustic study of the vowel /a/ breaks, frequency changes and aperiodicity were observed. Speech was studied using the phonetogram, and the range of speech is altered in both patients. The inflammation of the peripheral nerves of the larynx by COVID-19 produced a sensory alteration, with a maladaptive response in these patients, who perhaps had predisposing genetic basis, or the immunological activation or the invasion of the germ by retrograde pathway altered the neuronal networks involved in the genesis of LD.

Yogasanas in Spasmodic Dysmenorrhoea w.s.r to Udavartha Yonivyapath

Many women are familiar with the experience of spasmodic dysmenorrhoea, one of the commonest gynaecological conditions that affects the quality of life of many in their reproductive years. This condition manifested as painful menstruation, is the most frequently encountered gynaecological complaint and it can be included under Udavartha yonivyapat, caused by Apanavata vaigunya described in Ayurvedic classics. This situation not only has a significant effect on quality of life and personal health but also resulting in loss of work hours and depression. Scholastic backwardness and work absenteeism as a result of dysmenorrhoea is common nowadays. Most of the medical therapies for painful periods like analgesics, antispasmodics, NSAID, and anti-prostaglandins are having many side effects. Hormonal and surgical therapies are also not advisable to all type of patients, especially teenagers as it may harm their future reproductive capacity. Here comes the importance of Yoga, which provides good approach to treat primary dysmenorrhea. Yoga asanas helps in stretching muscles of pelvic cavity and increases the blood circulation to the pelvic organs and also helps to neutralize Apana vayu, which help in normal menstrual flow. The practice of Asanas has a beneficial impact on the whole body systems and helps in relaxation of both body and mind. This study is undertaken to find out the Yogasanas having pain relieving capacity in spasmodic dysmenorrhoea as it doesn’t cause any side effects but improve the quality of life. A thorough literary survey was done in Yogic classics especially Asanas for women’s health, Asanas for reproductive health and tried to compile the Asanas together having the pain relieving capacity in primary dysmenorrhoea.

WU Lian-zhong's experience in treating spasmodic torticollis by Kaiqiao Shunjin method / 中国针灸

Professor WU Lian-zhong's experience in treating spasmodic torticollis by Kaiqiao Shunjin method (resuscitation and regulating muscle) is summarized in this paper. The pathogenesis of spasmodic torticollis is the occluded brain orifices and delirium, qi disorder of meridian tendons, specifically divided into five categories: damp-heat, liver-yang hyperactivity, liver-kidney yin deficiency, deficiency of the governor vessel, excess of the governor vessel. The treatment should be based on the symptoms and the root causes, the symptoms should be the main treatment, and the root cause should be treated based on syndrome differentiation. The main treatment is Kaiqiao Shunjin method (resuscitation and regulating muscle), and to take the chief (five heart acupoints-Shuigou [GV 26], Laogong [PC 8], Yongquan [KI 1]), deputy (Yintang [GV 24+], Shangxing [GV 23] through Baihui [GV 20], Ximen [PC 4]), assistant (Fenglong [ST 40], Lianquan [CV 23], combined with tongue needle prick), envoy (Hanyan [GB 4]) as the basic main acupoints, at the same time cooperate with local acupoints to remove knots and accumulation. Finally, syndrome differentiation is adopted to dredge meridians and disperse knots, regulate the governor vessel, and nourish yin and dispel wind.

Analysis of the clinical features of 400 suspected cases of pediatric pertussis / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To summarize the suspected cases of pertussis, to explore the pathogen, and to analyze the clinical features of pertussis.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical data of suspected pertussis cases who visited the Department of Infectious Diseases in the Children′s Hospital Affiliated to Capital Institute of Pediatrics from June 2015 to May 2019.Results:(1) The PCR test for respiratory secretions of Bacillus pertussis was completed in 400 cases, with 198 cases positive (49.5%). (2) Among the 198 cases, 158 cases with pertussis were less than 1 year old (79.8%), 113 cases had a clear history of close contact with cough patients (57.1%), and 162 cases were not vaccinated or did not complete full diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and pertussis(DTP) vaccination (81.8%). The incidence of spasmodic cough was 73.7%(146/198 cases); the duration from onset to diagnosis was (17.2±12.3) d; the incidence of cyanosis after cough was 31.3%(62/198 cases), cough with vomiting 17.7% (35/198 cases), inspiratory croup 12.1%(24/198 cases); other concomitant symptoms included wheezing, runny nose, fever, diarrhea, etc.(3) All the patients were divided into the pertussis group (198 cases), other pathogen group (104 cases), and unknown pathogen group (98 cases). Comparison of the clinical symptoms of the three groups showed the highest incidence of cyanosis after cough in pertussis group ( χ2=15.334, P<0.001), and the highest incidence of wheezing, dyspnea, fever, pulmonary rales and stridor in other pathogen group ( χ2=79.208, 38.214, 16.709, 44.794, 42.480, all P<0.001). The percentages of white blood cells, lymphocytes and platelets in the pertussis group were higher than those in the other two groups ( F=15.812, 18.198, 10.819, all P<0.001). Conclusions:Suspected cases of pertussis are infected with various pathogens.Improving the pertussis nucleic acid detection and respiratory virus detection can help to make a clear diagnosis.Pertussis is more common in infants under 1 year of age and in those who have not completed vaccination.The most prominent clinical symptom is spasmodic cough, and the incidence of cyanosis after cough is higher than that of patients infected with other pathogens.

Summary on / 中国针灸

The thinking and experience of professor

Impacto en la calidad de vida del tratamiento de disfonía espasmódica aductora con toxina botulínica A / Impact on the quality of life of the treatment of adductor spasmodic dysphonia with botulinum toxin A

Introducción. La distonía laríngea o disfonía espasmódica se caracteriza por con-tracciones involuntarias de los músculos laríngeos internos que se desencadenan al hablar, siendo la forma aductora la más frecuente. La inyección de toxina botulínica es el manejo de elección. Para evaluar la respuesta a la terapia existen varios instru-mentos validados, uno de ellos es el cuestionario Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10). El objetivo de este estudio es caracterizar a los pacientes con disfonía espasmódica aductora y evaluar el impacto de la toxina en su calidad de vida.Método. Éste se centró en un estudio retrospectivo descriptivo en pacientes adultos con diagnóstico de disfonía espasmódica aductora tratados con toxina botulínica A, en el Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile (HCUC), en el periodo comprendido en-tre 2013 y 2021. El mismo permitió la obtención de los datos epidemiológicos de los pacientes, a quienes se les solicitó responder la encuesta VHI-10 previo y posterior a un mes de cada inyección de la toxina.Resultados. Se incluyeron 55 pacientes (218 procedimientos). La dosis promedio utilizada fue de 9,18 UI con un intervalo promedio de 7,4 meses. El puntaje VHI-10 promedio en la evaluación inicial fue de 29,4 y posinfiltración de 14,96, siendo esta diferencia significativa (p < 0,000001). En nuestra serie casi un tercio tiene asociada alguna patología neurológica, y se reportó un 3,67% de complicaciones leves y transitorias.Conclusión. La disfonía espasmódica aductora tiene un gran impacto en la calidad de vida de los pacientes, que se reduce significativamente mediante la inyección de toxina botulínica A, procedimiento que ha demostrado ser seguro y eficaz

Introduction. Laryngeal dystonia or spasmodic dysphonia is characterized by in-voluntary contractions of internal laryngeal muscles that are triggered when speak-ing, being the adductor form the most frequent. Botulinum toxin injection is the management of choice. There are several validated instruments to assess response to therapy, one of them is the Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10) questionnaire. The objective of this study is to characterize patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia and evaluate the impact of the toxin in their quality of life.Method. A descriptive retrospective study was carried out in adult patients with a diagnosis of adductor spasmodic dysphonia treated with botulinum toxin A, between 2013-2021 at the Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile. The epidemiological data of the patients and the VHI-10 survey were obtained before and after one month of each toxin injection was requested.Results. 55 patients (218 procedures) were included. The average dose used was 9.18 IU with an average interval of 7.4 months. The average VHI-10 score in the initial evaluation was 29.4 and post-infiltration was 14.96, being this difference sig-nificant (p <0.000001). In our series, almost a third had an associated neurological pathology, and 3.67% of mild and transitory complications were reported.Conclusion. Adductor spasmodic dysphonia has a great impact on the quality of life of patients, which is significantly reduced by injecting botulinum toxin A, a pro-cedure that has been shown to be safe and effective

Comparison of different brands of centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants: a cost analysis study

Background: Skeletal muscle relaxants are structurally distinct drugs prescribed for reducing muscle spasms, pain, and hyperreflexia. Centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants are manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies with variable price. The present study, aimed to analyze the cost variation of various brands of centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants, so as to help the physician to choose the cost effective treatment.Methods: Current index of medical stores (CIMS) April 2018 and online literature were used as information guide to review the prices of drugs used in the treatment of musculo skeletal pain and spastic neurological disorders.Results: Among anti spasmodic group, thiocolchicoside 4 mg shows maximum price variation of 337.5%, whereas carisoprodol 350 mg shows the least variation of 0.1%. It is evident from antispastic group that baclofen 10 mg shows maximum price variation of 93.91% and 5 mg of Baclofen shows the least variation of 11.22%. It is observed that, among anti spastic group, a percentage prize variation of 93.91 for 10 mg and 11.22 for 5 mg baclofen. Largest % prize variation is seen in metaxalone + diclofenac sodium (400+50) mg as 525% and the least variation is observed in tolperisone+ paracetamol (150+325) mg as 3.88%.Conclusions: Centrally acting orally effective skeletal muscle relaxants are commonly prescribed for painful musculoskeletal and spastic neurological disorders. Physicians should give due importance for the cost of the drugs while selecting appropriate drug for musculo skeletal disorders.

Camylofin dihydrochloride injection: a drug monograph review

Camylofin dihydrochloride is an anti-spasmodic drug available in India and other Latin American and African countries, for the treatment of abdominal colic and for acceleration of labor. Although, the drug has been in use for over six decades, with multiple citations in academic text books of repute, treatment protocols, and multiple research publications, there is no consolidated published information on the pharmacology and clinical details of camylofin. This drug statement/monograph is an attempt to collate and present scientific information that will come in handy to practicing obstetricians and gynaecologists, as well as other primary care physicians, when treating cases of abdominal colic or managing prolonged labor. Approved clinical indications, clinical pharmacology, dosage, contraindications, precautions, drug interactions, adverse effects, overdose and clinical evidence in different indications are covered herein.

Role of camylofin and its combinations in obstetrics and gynaecological practice: a review of Indian evidence

Anti-spasmodic drugs like camylofin are used in obstetrics and gynaecological practice for broadly two conditions - spasmodic abdominal pain and management of prolonged labor. Camylofin has been in use in India for almost six decades. As a spasmolytic, camylofin has demonstrated good efficacy and tolerability, both in the management of abdominal spasmodic pain and in augmentation of labor. Literature evidences has suggested that camylofin has demonstrated a statistically significant superiority, such as higher spasmolytic potency compared to other anti-spasmodics like drotaverine, hyoscine and valethamate. In some studies, camylofin maintained the superior efficacy, despite being given as a single dose compared to repeat doses of comparator drugs. Also, in augmentation of labor, camylofin single dose demonstrated superior efficacy when the comparator arm was given a combination of two anti-spasmodic drugs i.e. hyoscine and valethamate in three doses at hourly intervals. Clinical studies in abdominal colic pain revealed significant superiority of the camylofin-paracetamol combination over dicylomine paracetamol combination, this despite the camylofin combination containing 300mg paracetamol as compared to the dicyclomine combination containing 500mg paracetamol. Similar results, highlighting better outcomes in abdominal colic of different types, was shown in studies comparing camylofin-diclofenac combination compared with hyoscine (in renal colic) and also camylofin-mefenamic acid combination compared with dicyclomine-mefenamic acid combination (in menstrual colic). All the above clinical study results resonate in the findings of a recent survey with gynaecologists across the country, which showed that camylofin is considered as the anti-spasmodic most suitable for female patients compared to drotaverine, dicyclomine and hyoscine. Given the availability of strong clinical trial data in Indian women patients, camylofin along with its combinations holds a strong place in the armamentarium of practicing obstetricians and gynaecologists and can be a preferred choice of therapy in treatment protocols of abdominal spasmodic pain and augmentation of labor.

Congenital Muscular Torticollis: A Case Report

@#<p><strong>OBJECTIVE: </strong>To discuss a case of congenital muscular torticollis and its presentation, pathophysiology and management. </p><p><strong>METHODS: </strong></p><p>                    <strong>Design: </strong>Case Report</p><p>                    <strong>Setting: </strong>Tertiary Private Hospital</p><p>                    <strong>Patient: </strong>One</p><p><strong>RESULTS: </strong>An 11-year-old girl presented with tilting of head to the right and progressive limitation of head movement since infancy. MRI showed a shortened right sternocleidomastoid muscle. The patient underwent surgical release of torticollis. Full range of motion of the neck was achieved after the surgical management.</p><p><strong>CONCLUSION</strong>: Congenital torticollis is a rare condition of the head and neck region. Physicians should be familiar with this entity and its presentation and it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with progressive limitation of head movement in order to initiate early treatment and avoid progressive physical deformity.</p><p> </p><p><strong>KEYWORDS: </strong>congenital muscular torticollis; familial spasmodic torticollis</p>

Síndrome de la persona rígida / Stiff-man syndrome

El síndrome de la persona rígida es un trastorno neurológico infrecuente y desconcertante, caracterizado por contractura progresiva, rigidez y espasmos dolorosos que afectan la musculatura axial, lo que imposibilita la deambulación del paciente. Se presenta un paciente masculino de 22 años de edad con manifestaciones clínicas y electromiográficas compatibles con esta entidad nosológica. El tratamiento descrito para la enfermedad no produjo mejoría de los síntomas. Con respecto a los casos descritos en la literatura científica, es el primer paciente con diagnóstico de síndrome de la persona rígida que ha recibido una dosis de diazepam de 500 mg diarios por vía oral sin efectos adversos y una dosis en bolo de propofol de 800 mg para lograr la relajación muscular(AU)

Stiff-Man Syndrome is an uncommon and disturbing neurological disorder characterized by progressive contracture, stiffness and painful spasms that affect the axial musculature, making it impossible for the patient to walk around. We present a 22-year-old male patient with clinical and electromyographic manifestations compatible with this nosological disease. The treatment described for the disease did not produce an improvement in symptoms. Regarding the cases described in the scientific literature, this is the first patient diagnosed with Stiff-Man Syndrome who has received a dose of diazepam of 500 mg daily orally without adverse effects and a bolus dose of 800 mg of propofol to achieve muscle relaxation(AU)

Professor ' clinical experience in the treatment of primary cervical dystonia / 中国针灸

Professor ' clinical experience in the treatment of primary cervical dystonia based on the syndrome differentiation of TCM was explored preliminarily. Based on the disease identification of western medicine and the syndrome differentiation of TCM, in combination with the differentiations of meridians and collaterals of acupuncture, Professor proposes the three-dimensional system of diagnosis and treatment of acupuncture, named "disease differentiation, TCM syndrome differentiation and meridian differentiation". Regarding the diagnosis and treatment of primary cervical dystonia, the physical examination of nerve system, TCM syndrome differentiation and meridian differentiation are equally important. It is pointed out that the key pathogenesis of the disease is and blood obstruction and the malnutrition in the muscle regions of meridians. Hence, the treating principle is proposed as eliminating the exogenous pathogens, regulating and blood and unblocking the muscle regions of meridians. Professor also stresses that the affected sites and the factors of dystonia should be considered in acupuncture treatment. The local points are mainly those adjacent to the responsible muscles with the motor disturbance in the neck region. "Xinshe" point (Extra) is taken as the empirical point. The distal points are selected in accordance with the three-dimensional system of diagnosis and treatment. At the same time, the percutaneous acupoint electric stimulation is applied to the starting and ending points or the conjunctive points of the affected muscles, acting on regulating , nourishing blood and promoting the circulation in meridians and collaterals.

Dynamic scalp acupuncture combined with PNF therapy for upper limb motor impairment in ischemic stroke spastic hemiplegia / 中国针灸

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>On the basic therapy, to assess the clinical effects of dynamic scalp acupuncture, scalp acupuncture combined with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) therapy and simple PNF therapy for upper limb motor impairment in ischemic post-stroke spastic hemiplegia.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 90 cases were randomly assigned into a PNF group, a dynamic scalp acupuncture group and a scalp acupuncture group, 30 cases in each group. Basic therapy and PNF therapy were applied in the three groups. PNF therapy was used during scalp acupuncture in the dynamic scalp acupuncture group. PNF therapy was applied after scalp acupuncture in the scalp acupuncture group. The points were the upper 1/5 and middle 2/5 of (MS 6) and (MS 7) at the lesion side, the hemiparalysis contralateral side. The treatment was given for 6 months, once a day and 1 month as a course. The modified Ashworth scale (MAS), the Fugl-Meyer motor assessment (FMA) and Barthel index (BI) were observed before treatment and 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The MAS 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after treatment were improved compared with those before treatment in the three groups ( all <0.05), and the MAS results in the dynamic scalp acupuncture group were better than those in the PNF and scalp acupuncture group (all <0.05). The FMA and BI scores 1 month, 3 months and 6 months after treatment were higher than those before treatment (all <0.05). The FMA Scores in the 3 time points and after treatment in the dynamic scalp acupuncture group were higher than those in the other two groups (all <0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>PNF therapy during scalp acupuncture can relieve the spasmodic condition of patients with upper limb motor impairment in ischemic post-stroke spasmodic hemiplegia, and improve the limb function and life activity, which is better than PNF therapy after scalp acupuncture and simple PNF therapy.</p>

Uso de la toxina botulínica en pacientes con alteraciones espásticas palpebrales / Use of botulinum toxin in patients with palpebral spastic alterations

Objetivo: evaluar los resultados terapéuticos de la aplicación de toxina botulínica A en pacientes con alteraciones espásticas palpebrales. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, longitudinal y prospectivo en 18 pacientes con estas afecciones, seleccionados en la consulta de Oculoplastia del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología Ramón Pando Ferrer en el período comprendido entre enero y diciembre del año 2016. Se describió la muestra según la edad, el sexo, el color de la piel, los antecedentes patológicos personales, las afecciones palpebrales y las limitaciones en tareas de la vida diaria. Se evaluó en el posoperatorio el tiempo de desaparición de los síntomas, la duración del efecto de la inyección de toxina botulínica, las complicaciones inmediatas y las mediatas. Resultados: el 70,6 por ciento estuvo comprendido en el rango de edad mayor de 60 años, y el 52,9 por ciento fueron mujeres. La piel blanca constituyó el 58,8 por ciento de la muestra. La afección que se presentó con mayor frecuencia fue el blefaroespasmo (47,1 por ciento). Todos los pacientes presentaron limitaciones para realizar tareas de la vida diaria. El 100 por ciento presentó dolor en el sitio de la inyección. En el 94,1 por ciento de ellos hubo desaparición de los movimientos involuntarios entre el cuarto y el quinto día posterior a la aplicación de xeomeen y en el 88,2 por ciento demoró la reaparición de los síntomas entre cuatro y seis meses. Conclusiones: la toxina botulínica es efectiva en la corrección de las afecciones palpebrales espásticas con desaparición de los síntomas en un período de tiempo entre cuatro y cinco días, con una rápida incorporación del paciente a la vida laboral y social por cuatro a seis meses(AU)

Objective: to evaluate the therapeutic results of the application of toxin botulínica A in patients with palpebral spastic alterations. Methods: an observational, descriptive, longitudinal and prospective study was performed on 18 patients with these conditions, who were selected at the Oculoplasty Service of Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology in the period from January to December 2016. The analyzed variables were age, sex, race, personal pathological history, eyelid disorders and restricted daily life. In the postoperative period, length of time for symptom relief, duration of the effect of botulinum toxin injection, and immediate and mediate complications were assessed. Results: in the group, 70,6 percent were included in the over 60 y age group and 52,9 percent were women. Caucasians accounted for 58,8 percent of the sample. The most frequent condition was blepharospasm (47,1 percent). All patients had limitations to perform daily life tasks. In 94,1 percent of the patients, involuntary movements disappeared between the 4th and the 5th day after the administration of Xeomeen and in 88,2 percent, the symptoms delayed to appear again from 4 to 6 months. Conclusions: botulinum toxin A is an effective alternative to correct palpebral spastic conditions, with symptoms disappearing in four to five days, and quick reincorporation of the patient to working and social life for 4 to 6 months(AU)

Differentiation of Adductor-Type Spasmodic Dysphonia from Muscle Tension Dysphonia Using Spectrogram

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Adductor type spasmodic dysphonia (ADSD) is neurogenic disorder and focal laryngeal dystonia, while muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) is caused by functional voice disorder. Both ADSD and MTD may be associated with excessive supraglottic contraction and compensation, resulting in a strained voice quality with spastic voice breaks. The aim of this study was to determine the utility of spectrogram analysis in the differentiation of ADSD from MTD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From 2015 through 2017, 17 patients of ADSD and 20 of MTD, underwent acoustic recording and phonatory function studies, were enrolled. Jitter (frequency perturbation), Shimmer (amplitude perturbation) were obtained using MDVP (Multi-dimensional Voice Program) and GRBAS scale was used for perceptual evaluation. The two speech therapist evaluated a wide band (11,250 Hz) spectrogram by blind test using 4 scales (0–3 point) for four spectral findings, abrupt voice breaks, irregular wide spaced vertical striations, well defined formants and high frequency spectral noise. RESULTS: Jitter, Shimmer and GRBAS were not found different between two groups with no significant correlation (p>0.05). Abrupt voice breaks and irregular wide spaced vertical striations of ADSD were significantly higher than those of MTD with strong correlation (p < 0.01). High frequency spectral noise of MTD were higher than those of ADSD with strong correlation (p < 0.01). Well defined formants were not found different between two groups. CONCLUSION: The wide band spectrograms provided visual perceptual information can differentiate ADSD from MTD. Spectrogram analysis is a useful diagnostic tool for differentiating ADSD from MTD where perceptual analysis and clinical evaluation alone are insufficient.

Differential Diagnosis between Neurogenic and Functional Dysphonia

Voice disorder is classified into three categories, structural, neurogenic and functional dysphonia. Neurogenic dysphonia refers to a disruption in the nerves controlling the larynx. Common examples of this include complete or partial vocal cord paralysis, spasmodic dysphonia. Also it occurs as part of an underlying neurologic condition such as Parkinson's disease, myasthenia gravis, Lou Gehrig's disease or disorder of the central nervous system that causes involuntary movement of the vocal folds during voice production. Functional dysphonia is a voice disorder in the absence of structual or neurogenic laryngeal characteristics. A near consensus exist that Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) is functional voice disorder wherein hyperfunctional laryngeal muscle activity whereas Spasmodic dysphonia (SD) is neurogenic, action-induced focal laryngeal dystonia including several subtype. Both Adductor type spasmodic dysphonia (AdSD) and MTD may be associated with excessive supraglottic contraction and compensation, resulting in a strained voice quality with spastic voice breaks. It makes these two disorders extremely difficult to differentiate based on clinical interpretation alone. Because treatment for AdSD and MTD are quite different, correct diagnosis is important. Clinician should be aware of the specific vocal characteristics of each disease to improve therapeutic outcome.

Clinical study of post-stroke upper limb spasmodic hemiplegia treated withneedling technique and Bobath therapy / 中国针灸

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To compare the difference in the clinical efficacy on post-stroke upper limb spasmodic hemiplegia between the combined therapy ofneedling technique and Bobath technology and simple Bobath technology.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Sixty patients were randomized into an observation group and a control group, 30 cases in each one. The usual medication of neurological internal medicine was used in the two groups. In the control group, Bobath facilitation technology was applied to the rehabilitation training. In the observation group, on the basis of the treatment as the control group,needling technique was used to stimulate Zhongfu (LU 1), Tianfu (LU 3), Chize (LU 5), Quchi (LI 11), Jianshi (PC 5) and Daling (PC 7). The treatment was given once a day; 5 treatments made one session and totally 4-week treatment was required in the two groups. The modified Ashworth scale, the modified Fugle-Meyer assessment (FMA) and the Barthel index (BI) were adopted to evaluate the muscular tension, the upper limb motor function and the activities of daily living (ADL) before and after treatment in the two groups. The clinical efficacy was compared between the two groups.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Compared with those before treatment, the modified Ashworth scale, Fugl-Meyer score and BI score were all improved after treatment in the two groups (all<0.01). The results in the observation group were better than those in the control group (all<0.01). The total clinical effective rate was 93.3% (28/30) in the observation group and was 80.0% (24/30) in the control group. The efficacy in the observation group was better than that in the control group (<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Theneedling technique combined with Bobath therapy achieve the superior efficacy on post-stroke upper limb spasmodic hemiplegia as compared with the simple application Bobath therapy. This combined treatment effectively relieve spasmodic state and improve the upper limb motor function and the activities of daily living.</p>

Spasmodic hemiplegia after stroke treated with scalp acupuncture, music therapy and rehabilitation: a randomized controlled trial / 中国针灸

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the differences in the clinical therapeutic effects on spasmodic hemiplegia after stroke among the alliance therapy of scalp acupuncture, music therapy combined with rehabilitation, the simple rehabilitation therapy and the combination of music therapy and rehabilitation.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A total of 76 patients of post-stroke spasmodic hemiplegia were randomized into a rehabilitation group (25 cases), a combination group with music therapy and rehabilitation (25 cases) and an alliance therapy group with scalp acupuncture, music therapy and rehabilitation (26 cases). In the rehabilitation group, the routine rehabilitation therapy was applied, including the removal of various incentives that cause spasm, the correction of body position and the physical therapy. In the combination group, the music therapy was added on the basis of the treatment as the rehabilitation group. The music physician used the rhythmic auditory stimulation, the patterned sensory enhancement and the therapeutic instrumental music playing to set up the task in the treatment. In the alliance therapy group, scalp acupuncture was added on the basis of the treatment as the combination group. The anterior oblique line of vertex-tempora (MS 6) and the posterior oblique line of vertex-tempora (MS 7) on the contralateral side were selected and stimulated with penetrating needling technique. The needles were retained. During the needling retaining, the needles were rotated once every 10 min, for 2 min each time. The treatment was given one session a day, totally for 5 sessions a week, continuously for 4 weeks. The Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA), Barthel index (BI) and the modified Ashworth scale (MAS) of the affected elbow and the passive knee movement at static condition were observed in the patients before and after treatment.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The results of FMA, BI and MAS were not different before treatment in the patients among the three groups (all>0.05), indicating the comparability among groups. After treatment, FMA and BI scores were all increased apparently in the three groups as compared with those before treatment (all<0.05). MAS grade was reduced remarkably as compared with that before treatment (all<0.05). After treatment, FMA and BI scores in the alliance therapy group were higher than those in the combination group and the rehabilitation group (all<0.05). FMA and BI scores in the combination group were higher than those in the rehabilitation group (both<0.05). MAS grade in the alliance therapy group was lower than those in the combination group and the rehabilitation group (both<0.05). MAS grade in the combination group was lower than that in the rehabilitation group (<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The alliance therapy with scalp acupuncture, music therapy and rehabilitation achieve the remarkable clinical therapeutic effects on post-stroke spasmodic hemiplegia as compared with the routine rehabilitation and the combination of music therapy and rehabilitation.</p>

Professor WU Lianzhong's Experience in Treating Spasmodic Torticollis and Myelitis Sequela / 浙江中医药大学学报

[Objective]To summarize the professor WU Lianzhong's experience in treatment of spasmodic torticollis and myelitis sequela by using acupuncture,so as to guide clinical practice better.[Methods] From following professor WU Lianzhong clinical studies,studying professor WU Lianzhong's medical cases,introducing Professor WU to treat spasmodic torticollis with Du channel four points and five points and treat myelitis sequela by using acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine,we can summarize his academic thoughts and experience on treating spasmodic torticollis and myelitis sequela.[Results] Professor WU thinks the key pathogenesis of Du channel type spastic torticollis is Orifices blocked and consciousness delirium,so the treatment principle is to clear the heart and reduce the fire,and regulate consciousness,at the same time strengthen the Du channel and break the nodules,this method is effective in clinical treatment.He holds that the etiology and pathogenesis of myelitis mainly for lack of spirit,attack of exogenous pathogens,prolonged illness lead to deficiency of liver and kidney,qi and blood deficiency,all these lead to tendon and vessel malnutrition.The cardinal treatment principle is to nourish liver and kidney,tonify qi and blood,dredge the channels and collaterals,also comprehensivey treat this disease by acupuncture combined with traditional Chinese medicine,the clinical effect is satisfying.[Conclusion] Professor WU's experience in treatment of Du channel type spasmodic torticollis and myelitis sequela is worth studying and popularizing in clinic.

Efficacy on the range of motion of the lower limbs in patients of post-stroke spasmodic paralysis regulated with multi-directional stimulation technique / 中国针灸

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To compare the efficacy between the multi-directional stimulation technique and routine needling technique in the range of motion (ROM) of the lower limbs in patients of post-stroke spasmodic paralysis.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Sixty patients were randomized into a multi-directional stimulation technique group and a routine needling technique group, 30 cases in each one. In the two groups, Biguan (ST 31), Fengshi (GB 31), Yang-lingquan (GB 34), Xiyangguan (GB 33), Zhongfeng (LR 4), Jiexi (ST 41), Qiuxu (GB 40), Kunlun (BL 60) and Xuanzhong (GB 39) on the affected side, scalp acupuncture sites and the acupoints on the upper limb of the affected side were selected. The even needling technique was used in the routine needling technique group and the multi-directional stimulation technique was used in the multi-directional stimulation technique group. The treatment was given once daily, 5 days a week, for 4 weeks totally. Before and after treatment, Fugl-Meyer function and Berg balance were scored. The three-dimensional gait analysis was adopted to analyze ROM of hip, knee and ankle joints.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Fugl-Meyer function score and Berg balance score were improved significantly after treatment as compared with those before treatment in the two groups (all<0.01). The scores in the multi-directional stimulation technique group were all higher than those in the routine needling technique group (<0.01,<0.05). The abduction and adduction of hip joints and flexion-extension ROM were all improved after treatment as comparedwith those before treatment in the two groups (all<0.05). The maximum flexibility and flexion extension ROM of knee joint were improved after treatment as compared with those before treatment in the two groups (all<0.05), and the changes in extension of knee joint were not apparent (both>0.05). After treatment, the maximal flexion and the flexion-extension ROM of knee joint in the multi-directional stimulation technique group were improved significantly as compared with those in the routine needling technique group (both<0.05). The maximal dorsal flexion of ankle joint in the multi-directional stimulation technique group after treatment was increased as compared with that before treatment (<0.05), and the change was better than that in the routine needling technique group (<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Acupuncture effectively increases the maximal adduction angle and flexion-extension ROM of hip joint, and reduces abduction of hip joint. The multi-directional stimulation technique contributes to the flexion of knee joint and dorsal flexion of ankle joint and the maintenance of limb balance. The efficacy of it is better than that of routine acupuncture stimulation technique.</p>