Left vocal cord paralysis in systemic lupus erythematosus

Abstract

Left vocal cord palsy is a well-recognised rare complication of SLE. We encountered a gentleman who during an acute flare developed left vocal fold palsy (VCP). Immunosuppression was increased, but this only produced partial improvement. VCP is commonly but not exclusively caused by recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. Other causes may affect phonation, including mucosal ulceration, vasculitis and pulmonary hypertension. There is limited literature on the diagnosis of and treatment options for VCP in SLE.

Keywords::

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Vasculitis
• Vocal cord
• Immunosuppression