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Neuralgic amyotrophy associated with temporary vocal fold paralysis: successful treatment by vocal fold augmentation with hyaluronic acid

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 March 2015

K Geißler*
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Germany
C M Klingner
Affiliation:
Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Germany
O Guntinas-Lichius
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Germany
T Bitter
Affiliation:
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Jena University Hospital, Germany
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Katharina Geißler, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Jena, Lessingstraße 2, D-07740 Jena, Germany Fax: +49 3641 935 129 E-mail: Katharina.Geissler@med.uni-jena.de

Abstract

Background:

Neuralgic amyotrophy is a polyneuropathy that classically involves the brachial plexus. This paper reports an unusual clinical manifestation associated with vocal fold paralysis.

Case report:

A 36-year-old male presented with hoarseness and progressive weakness of the right shoulder and upper arm muscles. Laryngoscopy revealed a limited adduction of the right vocal fold.

Results:

Subsequent speech therapy did not improve the symptoms. Therefore, vocal fold augmentation by application of hyaluronic acid in the right vocal fold was performed.

Conclusion:

Vocal fold augmentation with resorbable material seems to be a more effective transient treatment than speech therapy alone for patients with neuralgic amyotrophy and laryngeal involvement.

Type
Online Only Clinical Record
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2015 

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