Reversible Paclitaxel-Induced Bilateral Vocal Fold Paresis

Jeffrey Hsu; Melin Tan-Geller

doi:10.4236/ijohns.2015.43043

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International Journal of Otolaryngology ... > Vol.4 No.3, May 2015

Reversible Paclitaxel-Induced Bilateral Vocal Fold Paresis (Short Report)

Jeffrey Hsu, Melin Tan-Geller

Montefiore Medical Center, New York, USA.

DOI: 10.4236/ijohns.2015.43043 PDF HTML XML 4,427 Downloads 5,004 Views Citations

Abstract

Introduction: Chemotherapy is a rare cause of iatrogenic vocal fold dysfunction. It has been reported in three main classes of chemotherapy agents and often occurs during the treatment interval. We present a case of bilateral vocal cord paresis with delayed presentation after completion of chemotherapy. Methods: One case, managed with observation and serial exams, is presented. A review of previous case reports of chemotherapy-induced vocal cord paresis and possible mechanisms of injury was performed. Results: Patient improved both symptomatically and through objective findings over the one-year course of observation. Conclusion: Diagnosis of chemotherapy-induced vocal cord paresis is dependent on a thorough history and physical exam. Management is predicated in that the dysfunction is often dose dependent and reversible, necessitating both cessation of the offending agent and the knowledge that any treatment is likely needed for only a temporary time. Chemotherapy-induced vocal fold paresis should be in the differential for patients presenting with hoarseness, dysphonia, stridor and a positive chemotherapy history

Keywords

Vocal Cord Paralysis, Chemotherapy

Share and Cite:

Hsu, J. and Tan-Geller, M. (2015) Reversible Paclitaxel-Induced Bilateral Vocal Fold Paresis. International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery, 4, 254-258. doi: 10.4236/ijohns.2015.43043.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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