Ortner Syndrome due to Concomitant Mitral Stenosis and Bronchiectasis

ABSTRACT

Ortner syndrome or cardiovocal syndrome is a rare condition characterized by hoarseness of voice associated with cardiovascular pathology. Compression of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve by the pulmonary artery or left atrium is usually responsible. Recurrent aspiration pneumonia may cause significant morbidity and mortality. Early recognition and treatment along with removal of the underlying cause, if possible, may change an otherwise poor prognosis of the condition. The case presented here describes a 35-year old female with hoarseness of voice in association with mitral stenosis and bronchiectasis. Presence of dual pathology contributed to the overall pathophysiology of the disease, and made its management difficult.