Upper Motor Neuron Diseases and Laryngeal Presentations

Purpose of Review: The purpose of this manuscript is to review laryngeal manifestations of upper motor neuron disease. A review of the relevant neuroanatomy is performed as well as a description of common laryngeal signs of upper motor neuron disease and the disease entities that cause them. Recent Findings: Upper motor neuron lesions must occur in the brainstem or in the bilateral cerebral hemisphere in order to cause signs and symptoms in the larynx. Summary: The presence of bilateral vocal fold paralysis or paresis with concurrent signs of myoclonus, tremor, rigidity, hyperactive gag reflex, and/or laryngospasm episodes should prompt an investigation for possible medullary brainstem or bilateral cerebral cortex pathology.