Puberphonia

Puberphonia (also known as mutational falsetto or mutational chink) is the persistence of adolescent voice even after puberty.

Introduction

The laryngeal prominence, commonly known as the Adam's Apple.

Normally adolescent males undergo voice changes due to a sudden increase in the length of the vocal cords due to the enlargement of the Adams Apple. This is uncommon in females because their vocal cords do not show a sudden increase in length. This sudden increase in the length of the vocal cords is due to the sudden increase in testosterone levels found in pubescent males.

Definition

The persistence of adolescent voice even after puberty in the absence of organic cause is known as Puberphonia. This condition is commonly seen in males. The patient has an unusually high pitched voice persisting beyond puberty. This is uncommon in females because laryngeal growth spurt occurs commonly only in males.

Causes of Puberphonia

1. Emotional stress
2. Delayed development of secondary sexual characters
3. Psychogenic
4. Non fusion of thyroid laminae

Treatment

This condition is best treated by voice therapy. Also Type III phonosurgery can be done which includes surgical shortening and relaxation of the vocal cords.

External links

• Puberphonia is curable. Experiences of a 40 year victim.
• Puberphonia