Author(s)

Ethel Nkechi Chime^1,2*, Peter Ekpunobi Chime³, John C. Eze⁴

¹Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu, Nigeria.
²Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, Nigeria.
³Department of Medicine, Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, Parklane, Enugu, Nigeria.
⁴Cardiothoracic Unit, Department of Surgery, University of Nigeria, Ituku-Ozalla Campus, Ituku-Ozalla, Enugu State, Nigeria.

Background and Objective: Vocal cord paralysis results in impairment of breathing and/or speech. One of the causes of vocal cord paralysis is the disruption of vagus nerve innervation to the vocal cords by the mass effect of a neighbouring structure. We report a rare case of vocal cord paralysis secondary to internal carotid artery dissection. Method: The diagnosis was based on clinical history, physical examination and imaging studies. Literature review was done. Case Report: This was a 53-year-old female with a history of unremitting, progressive hoarseness and mild dysphagia to liquid, who was clinically found to have impaired left vocal cord mobility, a left-sided pulsatile neck mass and left carotid artery dissection based on imaging studies. Symptoms abated after conservative treatment with Aspirin and she has remained symptom free since two years of follow-up. Conclusion: Vocal cord paralysis can be a consequence of carotid artery dissection causing mass effect on the vagus nerve. Thus, carotid artery dissection should not be forgotten as a possible cause of vocal cord paralysis in some cases of vocal cord paralysis of uncertain etiology. Treatment with anti-platelet drug can bring about resolution of symptoms and return of vocal cord mobility.

Vocal Cord Paralysis, Internal Carotid Artery Dissection/Aneurysm

Chime, E. , Chime, P. and Eze, J. (2022) Vocal Cord Paralysis Secondary to Carotid Artery Dissection: A Case Report. Journal of Biosciences and Medicines, 10, 8-12. doi: 10.4236/jbm.2022.103002.