Neurosarcoidosis Directly Involving the Cervical Vagus Nerve

Abstract

Objectives: To present a novel location in which neurosarcoidomatous inflammation is identified and its accompanying presentation. Methods: The authors present a case of bilateral vocal fold paresis associated with non-caseating granulomatous inflammation of the cervical and intra-axial portions of the vagus nerve masquerading as a cranial nerve tumor. Results: Examination revealed bilateral vocal fold paresis and asymmetric palate elevation. MRI demonstrated enhancing bilateral jugular foramen masses, and neck ultrasound demonstrated bilateral thickened appearance of the vagus nerves. Vagus nerve biopsy demonstrated non-caseating granulomas. Conclusions: Neurosarcoidosis may contribute to variable cranial neuropathies. Vocal fold paresis is usually thought to arise from mediastinal compression of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve. Rarely, though, lesions may arise in other parts of the vagus nerve. Failure of response to steroids does not rule out the diagnosis, making tissue diagnosis important in some cases.