American Journal of Roentgenology · 1983 · 73 citations · 0 references
MedicineOncologyOtolaryngologyLaryngologyNeck OncologyThoracic RadiologyLaryngeal AnatomyLaryngeal ImagingNeck ImagingNeurolaryngeal DisordersVocal Fold ParalysisVoice DisordersAnatomy Of The MediastinumConventional RadiographyIdiopathic EtiologyLaryngeal ParalysisLaryngeal PathologyRecurrent Laryngeal Nerve ParalysisVocal Fold Mass LesionsVocal Fold Paralysis Imaging
The recurrent laryngeal nerve’s normal anatomy and common pathological masses are well described. Computed tomography was employed in 33 patients to identify extralaryngeal causes of vocal cord paralysis. Neoplasms in the lower neck or upper mediastinum accounted for the majority of cases (27/33), while negative CT scans suggested neuropathic or idiopathic causes, and CT proved valuable for detecting or ruling out lesions in hard‑to‑examine regions such as the aortopulmonary window.
Computed tomography (CT) was used in 33 patients to evaluate possible extralaryngeal causes of vocal cord paralysis (22 left, 11 right). Neoplasm in the lower neck or upper mediastinum (lung, esophagus, thyroid, breast, lymphoma) was found to be the predominant cause (27/33). A negative CT examination correlated with a neuropathic (e.g., diabetes) or idiopathic etiology. CT proved useful in demonstrating or excluding abnormalities in areas that are difficult to evaluate by physical examination or conventional radiography, particularly the aortopulmonary window. The normal anatomy and pathologic masses involving the recurrent laryngeal nerve are illustrated.