Vocal cord paralysis: anatomy, imaging and pathology

Vocal cord paralysis (VCP) can be caused by any process that interferes with the normal function of the vagal nerves or recurrent laryngeal nerves. It may be a first sign of extensive and severe pathology. Radiologists must therefore be able to recognise the imaging findings of VCP and know the cour...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Insights into imaging 2014-12, Vol.5 (6), p.743-751
Main Authors: Dankbaar, J. W., Pameijer, F. A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Diagnostic Radiology
Imaging
Internal Medicine
Interventional Radiology
Medicine
Medicine & Public Health
Neuroradiology
Pictorial Review
Radiology
Ultrasound
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Description
Summary:Vocal cord paralysis (VCP) can be caused by any process that interferes with the normal function of the vagal nerves or recurrent laryngeal nerves. It may be a first sign of extensive and severe pathology. Radiologists must therefore be able to recognise the imaging findings of VCP and know the course of the vagal and recurrent laryngeal nerves. This review focuses on the anatomy and imaging evaluation of these nerves and thereby the possible sites for pathology causing VCP. The imaging characteristics and imaging mimics of VCP are discussed and cases from daily practice illustrating causes of VCP are presented. Teaching Points • Vocal cord paralysis may be the first presentation of severe pathology. • Radiologists must be aware of imaging characteristics and mimics of vocal cord paralysis. • Lesions along the vagal nerves and recurrent laryngeal nerves can cause vocal cord paralysis.
ISSN:1869-4101
1869-4101
DOI:10.1007/s13244-014-0364-y