Collet-Sicard Syndrome With Hypoglossal Nerve Schwannoma: A Case Report

Abstract

Collet-Sicard syndrome is a rare syndrome that involves paralysis of 9th to 12th cranial nerves. We report an uncommon case of schwannoma of the hypoglossal nerve in a 39-year-old woman presented with slurred speech, hoarse voice, and swallowing difficulty. Physical examination revealed decreased gag reflex on the right side, decreased laryngeal elevation, tongue deviation to the right side, and weakness of right trapezius muscle. MRI revealed a mass lesion in the right parapharyngeal space below the jugular foramen. The tumor was surgically removed. It was confirmed as hypoglossal nerve schwannoma via pathologic examination. Videofluoroscopic swallowing study revealed aspiration of liquid food and severe bolus retention in the vallecula and piriform sinus. Laryngoscopy revealed right vocal cord palsy. Electrodiagnostic study revealed paralysis of the right 11th cranial nerve. In summary, we report an uncommon case of schwannoma of the hypoglossal nerve with 9th to 12th cranial nerve palsy presenting as Collet-Sicard syndrome.