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Horner's syndrome and thyroid neoplasms
Igor Leuchter1, Minerva Becker, Robert Mickel
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland.
Summary
Horner's syndrome is rarely caused by thyroid goiter. This case study and literature review found benign thyroid disease, not malignancy, more frequently causes Horner's syndrome in thyroid neoplasia.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Oncology
Background:
- Horner's syndrome is a rare complication of thyroid goiter.
- Neoplasia, particularly malignant lesions, is the most common cause of Horner's syndrome.
Observation:
- A case of intrathoracic multinodular goiter complicated by Horner's syndrome is presented.
- The patient's symptoms resolved after surgical intervention for benign thyroid disease.
Findings:
- A literature review revealed 38 cases of Horner's syndrome secondary to benign thyroid tumors versus 8 cases caused by thyroid carcinoma.
- Contrary to common belief, benign thyroid disease is a more frequent cause of Horner's syndrome than thyroid malignancy.
Implications:
- This finding challenges the prevailing view on the etiology of Horner's syndrome associated with thyroid neoplasia.
- Clinical suspicion for benign thyroid disease should be considered in patients presenting with Horner's syndrome.
- Further research may refine diagnostic and treatment protocols for this rare presentation.