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Superior laryngeal nerve paralysis and benign thyroid disease
Archives of Otolaryngology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|February 1, 1981
Summary
This case report highlights isolated superior laryngeal nerve paralysis caused by a thyroid adenoma. Early detection through vocal changes and specific laryngoscopic findings is crucial for thyroidectomy patients.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
Background:
- Thyroid adenomas can rarely cause isolated paralysis of the superior laryngeal nerve.
- Superior laryngeal nerve paralysis presents with vocal changes and aspiration, requiring careful diagnosis.
Observation:
- A case of superior laryngeal nerve paralysis secondary to a thyroid adenoma is presented.
- Diagnostic signs include altered vocal strength/pitch and laryngoscopic findings of a posteriorly rotated glottis with a bowed vocal cord.
Findings:
- Thyroid adenoma as a cause of isolated superior laryngeal nerve paralysis.
- Clinical and laryngoscopic signs indicative of superior laryngeal nerve dysfunction.
Implications:
- Routine preoperative and postoperative examination for superior laryngeal nerve paralysis in thyroidectomy patients is recommended.
- Awareness of potential anatomic variations and meticulous surgical dissection of the superior thyroid pole can prevent iatrogenic nerve injury during thyroidectomy.