Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Delayed onset vagus nerve paralysis after occipital condyle fracture in a horse.
- Journal:
- Journal of veterinary internal medicine
- Year:
- 2019
- Authors:
- Martin-Giménez, Tamara et al.
- Affiliation:
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital · Spain
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 7-year-old Friesian horse experienced trouble swallowing (dysphagia) several days after a minor head injury, which was linked to a rare condition called vagus nerve paralysis. An examination showed that the horse had issues with its larynx and some bleeding in a specific area near the throat. X-rays revealed a fracture in the skull and a large bone fragment that was affecting the horse's throat area. This case suggests that if a horse has swallowing problems after a head injury, it’s important for veterinarians to check for potential skull and neck injuries. The treatment focused on addressing the fracture and nerve issues, but the outcome details were not specified.
Abstract
Occipital condylar fractures (OCFs) causing delayed onset lower cranial nerve paralysis (LCNPs) are rare. We present a 7-year-old Friesian horse with delayed onset dysphagia caused by vagus nerve (CNX) paralysis and suspicion of glossopharyngeal nerve (CNIX) paralysis developed several days after a minor head injury. Endoscopic examination revealed right laryngeal hemiplegia and intermittent dorsal displacement of the soft palate. An area of submucosal hemorrhage and bulging was appreciated over the dorsal aspect of the medial compartment of the right guttural pouch. Radiological examination of the proximal cervical region showed rotation of the atlas and the presence of a large bone fragment dorsal to the guttural pouches. Occipital condyle fracture with delayed onset cranial nerve paralysis was diagnosed. Delayed onset cranial nerve paralysis causing dysphagia might be a distinguishable sign of OCF in horses. Delayed onset dysphagia after head injury should prompt equine clinicians to evaluate the condition of the atlanto-occipital articulation and skull base.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31556150/