Hoarseness due to leech ingestion

Abstract

This paper presents a case of hoarseness caused by the pharyngolaryngeal localization of a leech. This pathological lesion is extremely rare in western European countries, but is more frequent in endemic areas. Possibly lethal dyspnoea, haemoptysis or haematemesis can be the revealing symptoms. When the diagnosis is suspected simple examination under anaesthesia and removal of the leech will effect a cure.