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.

Design: Report and review of the literature.

Setting: Outpatient community cancer center.

Patient: 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.

Conclusion: 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.