Differential Diagnosis for Progressive Loss of Voice in Choir with Left Throat Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Strain or Vocal Cord Lesion: This is likely due to overuse or misuse of the voice, common in individuals who use their voice extensively such as choir members. The strain or lesion could lead to progressive loss of voice and throat pain.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Acid Reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux): Stomach acid flowing up into the throat can cause irritation, leading to voice changes and throat pain. This condition is common and can be exacerbated by certain foods, drinks, or lying down after eating.
- Vocal Cord Nodules or Polyps: These are growths on the vocal cords that can develop from voice misuse or overuse, leading to hoarseness and throat pain.
- Muscle Tension Dysphonia: This condition involves inappropriate use of the muscles used for speaking and singing, leading to voice problems and discomfort.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Laryngeal Cancer: Although less common, it's crucial to rule out cancer, especially if there's a history of smoking or other risk factors. Symptoms can include progressive hoarseness, throat pain, and difficulty swallowing.
- Thyroid Cancer or Nodule: A mass in the thyroid gland can press on the recurrent laryngeal nerve, causing voice changes and throat pain. Early detection is key for effective treatment.
- Tuberculosis or Other Infectious Diseases: Certain infections can affect the larynx or throat, causing pain and voice changes. These conditions require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation of the cartilages of the body, including those in the larynx and trachea, leading to voice changes and throat pain.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition where inflammatory cells form lumps known as granulomas in various parts of the body, including the larynx, which can cause hoarseness and throat pain.
- Amyloidosis: A group of diseases that result from the abnormal accumulation of a protein called amyloid in various tissues of the body, which can rarely affect the larynx and cause voice changes and pain.