Bilateral Vocal Cord Palsy with Arnold Chiari Malformation: A Rare Case Series

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Otolaryngology
• Pediatric Neurology
• Congenital Neurological Disorders

Background:

• Stridor in infants is a common ENT emergency with a broad differential diagnosis.
• It can range from noisy breathing to severe respiratory distress and apnea, requiring prompt evaluation.
• Arnold Chiari Malformation is a frequent congenital central nervous system anomaly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case series of infants with Arnold Chiari Malformation presenting with stridor.
• To highlight the association between Arnold Chiari Malformation and bilateral vocal cord palsy.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and management in such cases.

Main Methods:

• Case series review of 3 infants presenting with stridor.
• Diagnostic workup including neurological assessment.
• Identification of underlying Arnold Chiari Malformation and bilateral vocal cord palsy.

Main Results:

• Three infants with Arnold Chiari Malformation presented with stridor.
• All three infants were diagnosed with bilateral vocal cord palsy.
• The underlying neurological condition included hydrocephalus and raised intracranial pressure.

Conclusions:

• Arnold Chiari Malformation is a significant, though rare, cause of bilateral vocal cord palsy presenting as stridor in infants.
• Early and meticulous diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
• Prompt intervention is necessary due to the potentially life-threatening nature of the condition.