Hoarse voice (dysphonia) in children

The Minimum information for referrals to non-admitted specialist services lists the information that should be included in a referral request.

Eligibility

At least one must be met for the patient to be eligible for referral.

Clinically suspected or confirmed hoarse voice (dysphonia) in children with initial primary-care work-up completed

Red flags

Indicate urgent (Category 1) referral or emergency assessment.

Hoarse voice associated with — difficulty in breathing or stridor

Hoarse voice associated with — acute neck or laryngeal trauma

Routine referral criteria

Determine Category 2 or 3 urgency.

Persistent hoarseness (longer than 3 months) which fails to resolve despite maximum speech therapy treatment

Persistent hoarseness after admission for croup infection

Usually managed in primary care