Laryngospasm: A frequently underrecognized symptom in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Abstract

In this issue of Muscle & Nerve, Gotesman et al report their findings from a retrospective review of laryngospasm in a large single-center cohort of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). 1Laryngospasm is defined as a paroxysmal episode beginning with the subjective sensation of inability to move air, followed by inspiratory stridor associated with rapid and forceful contraction of the laryngeal sphincter. 2 It can result in the inability to breathe or call for help. 3 Laryngospasm occurs in neurologic conditions affecting the basal ganglia, such as Parkinson disease; disorders of motor neurons, such as ALS, spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), and brainstem infarcts; as well as laryngeal nerve injury following surgery. 2 Laryngospasm is an underrecognized symptom in ALS, with few studies directly assessing its risk factors, frequency, severity, associated triggers, and potential therapies.