Clinical Report: Psoriatic Arthritis Linked to Rare Vocal Issue

Overview

This case report describes a rare instance of bilateral vocal cord immobility due to psoriatic arthritis, emphasizing the need for clinicians to consider rheumatologic causes in patients with unexplained voice and breathing abnormalities.

Background

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can manifest in various ways, including rare complications such as cricoarytenoid joint involvement leading to vocal cord immobility. Recognizing these manifestations is crucial for timely intervention, as they can result in significant airway compromise. This case highlights the importance of considering rheumatologic diseases in patients presenting with unexplained respiratory symptoms, particularly given the rarity of such complications.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data is presented in the article, but qualitative findings from the case provide insight into the clinical implications.

Key Findings

• Bilateral vocal cord immobility was identified in a patient with a long history of psoriatic arthritis.
• Flexible laryngostroboscopy revealed fixed vocal cords in paramedian positions, narrowing the glottic airway.
• Imaging confirmed vocal cord immobility without lesions on the recurrent laryngeal nerves or evidence of malignancy.
• This case represents only the second documented instance of cricoarytenoid joint involvement in psoriatic arthritis, highlighting its rarity.
• Conservative management was chosen due to stable symptoms and adequate airway.
• Early recognition of cricoarytenoid joint involvement is critical to prevent life-threatening airway obstruction.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be vigilant for signs of airway compromise in patients with psoriatic arthritis who present with voice changes or breathing difficulties. Early clinical evaluation and imaging are essential for timely diagnosis and management of potential complications, as delayed recognition can lead to serious outcomes.

Conclusion

This case underscores the need for awareness of rare complications associated with psoriatic arthritis, particularly regarding airway involvement. Prompt recognition and management can prevent serious outcomes, reinforcing the importance of considering such rare manifestations in clinical practice.

Related Resources & Content

1. Kyle Tong, Logan Milne, Ross Campbell, Marlise P. dos Santos, Ear, Nose & Throat Journal, 2026 -- Bilateral Vocal Cord Immobility Secondary to Psoriatic Arthritis: A Rare Clinical Case
2. Clinical Rheumatology, 2025 -- A Rheumatologist's Insights on Benign Subglottic Stenosis: A Comprehensive Review
3. Clinical Rheumatology, 2008 -- Tracheobronchomalacia Associated with Amyloidosis in a Patient Suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis
4. conexiant — PR Flares Linked to Future Arthritis Sites
5. Clinical Rheumatology (Springer) — Home-based respiratory-gated transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation for rheumatoid arthritis—a feasibility study
6. EULAR recommendations for the management of psoriatic arthritis with pharmacological therapies: 2023 update
7. Efficacy and safety of IL-17, IL-12/23, and IL-23 inhibitors for psoriatic arthritis
8. Bilateral Vocal Cord Immobility Secondary to Psoriatic Arthritis: A Rare Clinical Case - Kyle Tong, Logan Milne, Ross Campbell, Marlise P. dos Santos, 2026