抄録
We investigated two cases of Essential (Voice) Tremor with hand tremor, with particular focus on the voice disorders. The patient in case one was a 59 year-old male. Quavering voice tremor was observed during contextual speech. Rhythmical voice tremor on vowel prolongation ranging from approximately 5-6 Hz was observed. Synchronous tremors were also observed in the soft palate, neck, chest wall and abdominal wall. The larynx was normal and vocal fold tremor was not observed, but vertically oscillating movement of the larynx could be seen under the skin of the neck. The rhythmic activity of the cricothyroid muscle became synchronous with voice tremor. Synchronous changes in pitch, intensity and air flow rate were observed in a phonatry function test. Abdominal wall tremor (5-6 Hz) was observed on intentional expiration. He has a family history of essential tremors. The patient in case two was a 48 year-old male. Voice tremor was not observed during contextual speech but on vowel prolongation rhythmical voice tremor (5-6Hz) was observed with synchronized tremor in the abdominal wall. The larynx was normal and vocal fold tremor was not observed. Synchronized changes in pitch, intensity and air flow rate were observed. Abdominal wall tremor (5-6 Hz) was observed on intentional expiration. He also has a family history of essential tremors. It is suggested that the voice tremors were caused by a rythmical chage of intrathoracic pressure.
