Vocal fold nodules in an 11-year-old boy treated with an individualised homoeopathic medicine: A case report

Introduction: Vocal fold nodules (VFNs) are a primary contributor to childhood dysphonia, accounting for about 63% of cases involving voice disturbances. They have a potentially negative impact over the Quality of Life (QoL), including diminished self-esteem and academic performance. The conventional management for voice improvement varies from vocal hygiene and voice therapy to endo-laryngeal microsurgery. This case illustrates the usefulness of Homoeopathy in managing VFNs. Case Summary: An 11-year-old boy presented with a year-long history of painless hoarseness of voice. He was diagnosed with VFNs and underwent extensive conventional treatment, without any improvement. The initial subjective assessment was done using pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI). The case was repertorised using Zomeo Pro software and the boy was prescribed homoeopathic medicine, Lachesis mutus in 1M potency. Following the treatment, complete regression of VFNs on laryngeal endoscopy was noted along with a significant reduction in pVHI. The Modified Naranjo Criteria for Homeopathy (MONARCH) score was used to assess the likelihood of causal attribution of the clinical outcome to homoeopathic medicine. A MONARCH score of +7 indicates a positive causal relationship between the prescribed medicine and the treatment outcome. This case report suggests a beneficial role of homoeopathic treatment in vocal fold nodules in the paediatric age group.