Autonomic Neuroregulation in the Larynx and Its Clinical Implication

Abstract

The central nervous system controls autonomic function through interconnected areas distributed throughout the neural axis known as central autonomic network (CAN). Central nervous systems are organized and control functions of the body and secretion of brain neurotransmitter. The autonomic nervous system includes all regions controlling autonomic, unconscious, and involuntary functions in body homeostasis. Vagal nerve is the longest and most complex nerve of the autonomic nervous system and plays a role in regulating innervation in the larynx. Altered vagal nerve activity caused by impaired autonomic regulation was thought to be responsible for clinical entities related to laryngology diseases, such as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), chronic cough (CC), and vocal cord dysfunction (VCD). This chapter reviews the pathogenesis and clinical findings of laryngeal disease related to autonomic nerve dysfunction.