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Vincristine‐induced recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis
Author(s) -
Annino Donald J.,
Macarthur Carol J.,
Friedman Ellen M.
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1288/00005537-199211000-00011
Subject(s) - vincristine , paralysis , recurrent laryngeal nerve , medicine , laryngeal paralysis , surgery , chemotherapy , cyclophosphamide , thyroid
Vincristine‐sulfate‐related vocal cord paralysis has been reported infrequently in the literature. The neurotoxicity of the vinca alkaloids is well‐known; however, the potential for cranial nerve involvement is not widely recognized. Given the complexity of the typical patient receiving such a chemotherapeutic agent, the potential for misdiagnosis is high. Many patients have primary tumors or metastatic lesions in sites that could cause the clinician to overlook this reversible cause of neurologic dysfunction. This study describes the first three reported pediatric cases of vincristine‐induced vocal cord paralysis. Two patients developed increasing stridor secondary to bilateral vocal cord paralysis; the third developed a unilateral vocal cord paralysis. All resolved spontaneously upon withdrawal of the vincristine. Vinca‐alkaloid‐induced vocal cord paralysis is a potentially dangerous but reversible lesion. Otolaryngologists should be aware of the association between these agents and cranial nerve neuropathies.