Low-dose vincristine-associated bilateral vocal cord paralysis

• Published in: Connecticut medicine Vol. 63; no. 10; p. 583
• Main Authors: Ryan, S P, DelPrete, S A, Weinstein, P W, Erichson, R B, Bar, M H, Lo, K M, Cohen, N S, Tepler, I
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.10.1999
• Subjects: Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic - adverse effects; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols - therapeutic use; Female; Humans; Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse - drug therapy; Middle Aged; Vincristine - adverse effects; Vocal Cord Paralysis - chemically induced
• ISSN: 0010-6178

Vincristine-associated peripheral neuropathy is a well-described entity. We describe a case of vincristine-induced vocal cord paralysis, which is a rare complication of this drug. We report herein the second case of bilateral vocal cord paralysis in a patient receiving conventional doses of vincristine. To present a case report of vincristine-associated vocal cord paralysis and to review the relevant English language literature on this subject. Report and review of the literature. Outpatient community cancer center. A 58-year-old female with a diffuse large cell lymphoma stage IV receiving cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone. Bilateral vocal cord paralysis occurred in this patient receiving vincristine as part of her chemotherapy regimen. In addition to this case there have been a total of 25 prior reports, which are reviewed in the text. The incidence of bilateral vocal cord paralysis in patients receiving vincristine on the usual low-dose schedule is low. Prompt withdrawal of the offending agent results in prompt recovery without untoward long-lasting sequela.