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[Recurrent syncope in head and neck cancer: a case report]
L Bordenave1, A Moya-Plana1, C Motamed1
1Service d'anesthésie, institut Gustave-Roussy, 114, rue Paul-Vaillant, 94805 Villejuif, France.
Annales Francaises D'Anesthesie Et De Reanimation
|June 1, 2014
Summary
Recurrent head and neck cancer can cause rare syncopes due to tumor invasion. A pacemaker successfully prevented these episodes, enabling chemotherapy for a hypopharyngeal tumor patient.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Head and neck cancers, particularly hypopharyngeal tumors, can present with rare but serious complications.
- Tumor invasion of the carotid sinus or glossopharyngeal nerve afferent fibers can lead to syncope.
Observation:
- A 62-year-old male with recurrent hypopharyngeal cancer experienced syncopal episodes.
- Computerized tomography revealed a large tumor invading the carotid and parapharyngeal spaces.
Findings:
- The patient's syncopal episodes were directly correlated with the recurrent tumor.
- Treatment with isoproterenol hydrochloride in the intensive care unit was initiated.
- A pacemaker implantation was performed to manage and prevent further syncopal events.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare complication of head and neck cancer, emphasizing the importance of recognizing neurological and cardiovascular symptoms.
- Pacemaker implantation can be an effective intervention for managing syncope caused by tumor compression.
- Successful management of syncopal episodes facilitates the commencement of essential treatments like chemotherapy.
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