Vocal Cord Paralysis and Dysphagia as Sequelae of Gradenigo Syndrome

Authors

  • Mary Ann V. Macasaet Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Quezon City General Hospital and Medical Center
  • Emmanuel Tadeus S. Cruz Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Quezon City General Hospital and Medical Center

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32412/pjohns.v28i1.495

Keywords:

Chronic otitis media, Gradenigo syndrome, vocal cord paralysis, petrous apicitis

Abstract

Objectives:     To present a case of vocal cord paralysis and dysphagia developing in Gradenigo syndrome and to discuss its clinical presentation, differential diagnosis and therapeutic approach.

 

Methods:

            Design: Case Report

            Setting:  Tertiary Government Hospital

            Patient: One

 

Results:  A 54-year-old lady was admitted with a six month history of left-sided otorrhea, cheek and jaw pain, three months otalgia, and recent-onset hoarseness, dysphagia and diplopia on a background of mastoidectomy at age 6. Otoscopy revealed granulation tissue and chlolesteatoma occupying the left external auditory canal. There was left vocal cord paralysis with pooling of saliva in the pyriform sinus, left lateral gaze paralysis, and left facial nerve paralysis. CT scan revealed sclerosis of the left petrous apex and leptomeningeal enhancement on the left temporal lobe. Chronic suppurative otitis media with cholesteatoma and Gradenigo syndrome was diagnosed, and canal wall down mastoidectomy was performed Postoperatively, the otalgia and pain over the left jaw diminished in intensity while hoarseness and left lateral gaze palsy remained.

 

Conclusion: Gradenigo syndrome is known for its triad of retro-orbital pain, lateral gaze paralysis, and chronic middle ear infection due to petrous apicitis. Although rare, vocal cord paralysis and dysphagia may develop when infection traverses and encroaches on the jugular foramen where cranial nerves IX, X, and XI are lodged.  Knowledge of the syndrome should not be limited or confined to the classic triad.  Practicing ear specialists should be vigilant and cognizant of the clinical manifestations and sequelae of chronic middle ear infection. Prompt surgical intervention is crucial while resolution of the disease may vary for different individuals.

 

Keywords: Chronic otitis media, Gradenigo syndrome, vocal cord paralysis, petrous apicitis

 

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Published

2018-06-18

How to Cite

1.
Macasaet MAV, Cruz ETS. Vocal Cord Paralysis and Dysphagia as Sequelae of Gradenigo Syndrome. Philipp J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg [Internet]. 2018 Jun. 18 [cited 2024 Nov. 21];28(1):15-8. Available from: https://pjohns.pso-hns.org/index.php/pjohns/article/view/495

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