[Psychogenic cough: Another etiology for persistent cough]

Abstract

The most common causes of persistent cough are upper respiratory tract disease (postnasal drip syndrome, infections) and asthma. In the last year, six patients (four boys and two girls), aged 7-12 years old, with a diagnosis of hard-to-manage asthma and/or persistent cough were referred to our department. All the patients had undergone treatment with multiple drugs for long periods without favorable clinical response. The findings of physical examination, radiology, basal pulmonary function and post-bronchodilation and fibrobronchoscopy were normal. Organic disease was ruled out and a psychiatric evaluation was performed. Intelligence quotient was in the lower normal range and generalized anxiety order was identified, thus establishing a diagnosis of psychogenic cough. Treatment consisted of relaxation techniques and psychopedagogic support with favorable outcome. To avoid diagnostic errors and inappropriate treatment, psychogenic cough should be included in the differential diagnosis of persistent cough and hard-to-manage asthma.