Collet-sicard syndrome: case report of a rare presentation of metastatic gastric adenocarcinoma.

Abstract

Collet-Sicard is a rare syndrome that involves paralysis of unilateral lower cranial nerves (IX, X, XI and XII) due to lesions at the base of the skull. It is associated with various neoplastic and non-neoplastic aetiologies. Case Report: We report the case of an adult who presented with an 8 months history of dysphagia, dysphonia, supraclavicular lymphadenopathy, unilateral facial and shoulder weakness. A diagnosis of metastatic adenocarcinoma was confirmed by tissue biopsy. This is a case report of an unusual presentation of Collet-Sicard syndrome secondary to
metastatic gastric carcinoma. Because of delay in reporting to hospital and diagnosis, the patient died while being worked-up for radiotherapy and surgery. Conclusion: Delay in diagnosis of Collet-Siccard syndrome is common, and this condition should be considered in patients who present with a constellation of lower cranial nerve palsies.