'Honking': Psychogenic cough tic in children.

Psychogenic cough tic is a troublesome complaint. The cough is a noisy bark or honking, repeated frequently while the child is awake, but absent during sleep. Clinical and laboratory findings are negative, and cough suppressants and other medications are ineffective. The cough usually starts in the winter months and may be preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection. School phobia is frequently a contributory cause, but other psychological problems must also be considered. Treatment is usually by suggestion and identification of the underlying psychological problem. In some cases tranquillizers may be required.