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Imaging Features of Systemic Sclerosis-Associated Interstitial Lung Disease
Published on: June 16, 2020
Bilateral vocal fold immobility in a patient with overlap syndrome rheumatoid arthritis/systemic sclerosis
Francesca Ingegnoli1, Valentina Galbiati, Andrea Bacciu
1Department of Rheumatology, University of Milan, Istituto Gaetano Pini, Piazza Cardinal Ferrari, 20122 Milan, Italy. francesca.ingegnoli@unimi.it
Abstract:
Bilateral vocal fold immobility (BVFI) can be the result of a primary disorder or as an iatrogenic complication of surgery or intubation. Laryngeal involvement can be a rare complication of connective tissue disorders and it usually occurs in association with other symptoms and signs that indicate active disease. We present a case of BVFI in a patient with an overlap syndrome rheumatoid arthritis/systemic sclerosis, referred to our division because of dysphonia and dyspnea. The video-laryngostroboscopy showed the presence of BVFI. Physical examination, blood tests, lung and neck high resolution computed tomography scans did not demonstrate significant abnormalities. She was treated with pulses of intravenous methylprednisolone with slow improvement.
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