Low-dose vincristine-associated bilateral vocal cord paralysis.
BACKGROUND
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.


OBJECTIVE
To present a case report of vincristine-associated vocal cord paralysis and to review the relevant English language literature on this subject.


METHODS
Report and review of the literature.


METHODS
Outpatient community cancer center.


METHODS
A 58-year-old female with a diffuse large cell lymphoma stage IV receiving cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Ryan
S P
SP
Carl and Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center, Stamford Hospital, USA.
DelPrete
S A
SA
Weinstein
P W
PW
Erichson
R B
RB
Bar
M H
MH
Lo
K M
KM
Cohen
N S
NS
Tepler
I
I
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016403:Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / Q000188:drug therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D014750:Vincristine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014826:Vocal Cord Paralysis / Q000139:chemically induced*
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic; D014750:Vincristine