I have been diagnosed with a patulous eustachian tube with resulting autophonia. I also have been diagnosed with slight vocal cord gapping resulting in breathiness in my vocal quality. Both conditions improved when I bend over and increase blood flow/pressure. Has there been any research linking the "stiffness" or other properties of the mucosal linings of the vocal cords and the interior opening of the eustachian tube? Is there a common anatomy to these tissues which both seem to function as air valves to some extent?
Reply: ----------------------
> Since much of the lining of the larynx is composed of respiratory epithelium as is the lining of the nose and sinuses, both anatomic locations can be affected by upper respiratory illnesses. It is also conceivable that conditions that affect cartilage or connective tissue components could simultaneously affect the eustachian tube and the larnyx such as collagen vascular diseases. Muscle atrophy conditions or neurologic disorders might also affect both structures. But it would be unlikely in any of these aforementioned possibilities that only the eustachian tube and larynx would be affected without manifestations of illness in other locations. Another possible explanation for a finding of both a patulous eustachian tube as well as vocal cord gap on phonation would be a recent history of significant weight loss.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
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