A Case of Unilateral Vocal Cord Palsy due to Bakelite Exposure

Abstract

A 53-year-old male presented with complaints of dry cough, hoarseness and breathlessness for two months. He has been working in an electrical switch manufacturing unit for 25 years with history of exposure to Bakelite fumes and dust. Otorhinolaryngology examination revealed left-sided vocal cord palsy. Chest radiograph showed bronchiectasis. Other investigations like computed tomography of neck and chest, bronchoscopy with lung biopsy and magnetic resonance imaging of vagus nerve did not reveal any pathology for the cause of vocal cord palsy. We considered occupational exposure to Bakelite as the cause of vocal cord palsy and the patient was counselled to refrain from the occupational exposure to Bakelite. Subsequently, on regular follow-up, no further deterioration of the symptoms was observed. [Indian