TITLE:
Reversible Paclitaxel-Induced Bilateral Vocal Fold Paresis
AUTHORS:
Jeffrey Hsu, Melin Tan-Geller
KEYWORDS:
Vocal Cord Paralysis, Chemotherapy
JOURNAL NAME:
International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery,
Vol.4 No.3,
May
22,
2015
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