Complete recovery of an isolated left vocal fold palsy associated with a benign mediastinal thymic cyst

Abstract

AbstractObjectives:To present a case of benign mediastinal thymic cyst, and to review the published information on these cysts, including their incidence, presentation, diagnosis and management.Methods:We report the case of a 55-year-old man who presented with a unilateral vocal fold palsy subsequently found to be due to the presence of a benign mediastinal thymic cyst. A literature search was undertaken to identify the incidence, key features and management of this rare condition.Results:Benign mediastinal thymic cysts are a rare cause of mediastinal masses. Usually diagnosed incidentally, their management is usually surgical. Vocal fold palsy in isolation has not previously been reported in association with mediastinal thymic cysts.Conclusion:This report describes what we believe to be the first published case of a completely reversible vocal fold palsy presenting in association with a rare benign mediastinal thymic cyst.