An alcoholic presented with globus sensation in throat, cough and hoarseness. Larynx examination shows pseudosulcus in larynx. Pseudosulcus is seen in:
**Core Concept**
The pseudosulcus sign is a clinical finding associated with chronic alcohol abuse, characterized by a groove or depression in the posterior aspect of the epiglottis. This occurs due to the softening of the epiglottis cartilage and surrounding tissues, leading to the formation of a pseudo-sulcus.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Pseudosulcus is a hallmark of chronic alcohol abuse, resulting from the weakening of the epiglottis cartilage and surrounding tissues. The chronic irritation and inflammation caused by alcohol lead to the softening of the cartilage, which in turn causes the development of a groove or depression in the posterior aspect of the epiglottis. This is a distinctive feature of chronic alcohol abuse and is often seen in patients with a history of heavy drinking.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because pseudosulcus is not typically associated with laryngeal cancer. While laryngeal cancer can cause hoarseness and cough, it does not characteristically cause the formation of a pseudosulcus.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because pseudosulcus is not a feature of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While GERD can cause hoarseness and cough, it does not typically cause the softening of the epiglottis cartilage and surrounding tissues.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because pseudosulcus is not typically associated with hypothyroidism. While hypothyroidism can cause hoarseness and cough, it does not characteristically cause the formation of a pseudosulcus.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because pseudosulcus is not typically associated with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). While LPR can cause hoarseness and cough, it does not typically cause the softening of the epiglottis cartilage and surrounding tissues.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The pseudosulcus sign is a classic finding in chronic alcohol abuse and should prompt the clinician to investigate the patient's drinking history. A thorough history and physical examination are essential in identifying patients with chronic alcohol abuse.
**Correct Answer:** C.