PRESENCE OF DYSPHONIA IN INDIVIDUALS WITH TOURETTE’S SYNDROME

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