Clinical applicability of the study
To date this is the first UK based study and the largest case series
reporting vocal cord paralysis secondary to vincristine chemotherapy. As
cases that are referred to ENT are likely to be more severe cases in
terms of symptoms at presentation, it is likely that there is under
reporting, particularly of symptoms of unilateral paralysis. As symptoms
resolve on cessation of vincristine, early detection of mild symptoms
such as hoarseness via a prompt referral for diagnostic laryngoscopy is
essential. This may prompt alteration of treatment and may possibly
prevent the progress to more life threatening bilateral paralysis
requiring tracheostomy.