Thorotrast® Induced Pharyngeal Necrosis

Abstract

Thorotrast®, a radioactive contrast material used between 1930 and 1950, is often permanently retained within the patient. Individuals who have had diagnostic studies with Thorotrast® may develop serious complications many years later. These complications fall into two major categories, desmoplastic and neoplastic. The inadvertent infiltration of Thorotrast® into soft tissue, usually the neck during carotid arteriography, may later result in severe fibrosis with constriction of the surrounding vessels and nerves. Malignancies, the second major problem, have occurred at the site of previous Thorotrast® instillations throughout the body. The following report describes the clinical course of an 82-year-old woman who presented with a Thorotrast® induced desmoplastic reaction of her neck, complicated by pharyngeal necrosis and the development of a pharyngeal cutaneous fistula. The latter problem is quite rare, having been previously reported only once. Despite extensive tissue destruction conservative management prevailed. Repetitive debridement, controlling the intermittent infections, maintaining her nutritional status, and relieving her pain allowed spontaneous healing to occur.