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A 3D Human Lung Tissue Model for Functional Studies on Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Published on: October 5, 2015
Hoarseness due to Mycobacterium kansasii
1Department of ENT, Pilgrim Hospital, Boston, UK. davidwray5@fsmail.net
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|August 16, 2008
Summary
This case report details unilateral vocal fold paralysis caused by Mycobacterium kansasii compressing the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Effective antimycobacterial treatment resolved paralysis and symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Unilateral vocal fold paralysis has diverse etiologies.
- Recurrent laryngeal nerve compression by mediastinal masses is a known cause.
- Specific infectious agents causing this presentation are rare.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male smoker presented with cough, fever, hoarseness, and weight loss.
- Acid-fast bacilli were detected in sputum, later identified as Mycobacterium kansasii.
- Nasoendoscopy showed left vocal fold immobility; CT revealed enlarged mediastinal lymph nodes.
Findings:
- Mycobacterium kansasii infection led to enlarged lymph nodes compressing the left recurrent laryngeal nerve.
- Antimycobacterial therapy (Rifater, ethambutol) was initiated.
- Vocal fold mobility fully recovered after three months of treatment, with symptom resolution.
Implications:
- This is the first reported case of Mycobacterium kansasii causing unilateral vocal fold paralysis.
- Highlights the importance of considering infectious etiologies for vocal fold paralysis.
- Emphasizes the role of anatomical knowledge and imaging in diagnosis and management.
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