Classification of Voice Pathology

A proper classification of voice pathology is required for didactic reasons, and also to assist a clinician in establishing the "primary diagnosis", i.e., an initial voice disorder in a particular patient. In spite of a frequent etiologic overlapping between organic and functional voice disorders, it is useful to keep these two basic pathologic categories in clinical practice. A revised clinical classification of voice disorders is suggested, including several newly described voice disturbances. These are the syndrome of inappropriate vocal pitch (organic), psychogenic superimposition and false placement of the voice (functional).