Description

The GRBAS is a voice quality assessment tool used for the objective measurement of voice disorders.

The acronym GRBAS stands for the five vocal characteristics assessed:

G (Grade) – Overall severity of the voice quality
R (Roughness) – Presence of irregularity or roughness in the voice
B (Breathiness) – Level of breathy voice or air leakage
A (Asthenia) – Weakness or lack of vocal power
S (Strain) – Effort or strain perceived in the voice

Assessment with GRBAS is typically conducted by specialized professionals such as speech therapists or otolaryngologists and involves auditory evaluation and quantitative analysis of the individual’s voice.

Analysis

Analysis using the GRBAS includes:

Listening to the Voice: The examiner listens to the person’s voice either in real time or via a recording.
Application of Criteria: Voice characteristics are evaluated based on the five GRBAS categories.
Scoring: Each category is usually rated on a scale from 0 (normal voice) to 3 (severe disorder). The scores are recorded and combined to provide an overall evaluation of voice quality.

Voice analysis helps identify specific vocal dysfunctions and guides the development of targeted treatment plans.

Purpose

The aim of the GRBAS is to:

Measure Voice Quality: To assess different vocal attributes for the identification of voice disorders.
Determine Severity: To evaluate the severity of vocal impairments for diagnostic and therapeutic planning.
Track Progress: To monitor changes in voice quality during therapy and rehabilitation.

Calibration

Calibration of the GRBAS includes:

Definition of Criteria: Establishing clear criteria and rating scales for each vocal attribute.
Examiner Training: Training professionals in the proper use and accurate application of the tool.
Systematic Evaluation: Regular review and reassessment of results to ensure consistency and measurement accuracy.

References

Hirano, M. (1981). Clinical Examination of Voice. Springer-Verlag.
Kreiman, J., & Gerratt, B. R. (2005). Voice Quality Measurement. Journal of Voice, 19(2), 220–233.
Feldmann, H. J. (2001). The GRBAS Scale: A Review of Its Reliability and Validity. Logopedics, Phoniatrics, Vocology, 26(4), 183–191.