Isolated hypoglossal nerve palsy secondary to basilar artery compression: A case report and reviewing of electrodiagnostic evaluation of the hypoglossal nerve

Abstract

Introduction: Hypoglossal nerve palsy causes ipsilateral tongue weakness, commonly presenting with dysphagia, dysarthria, or perceived tongue weakness. Vascular compression is a rare cause of isolated hypoglossal nerve palsies. Imaging and serologic labs are common parts of the evaluation of hypoglossal nerve palsies. Though less commonly used, electrodiagnostic studies can be important in the diagnostic evaluation of hypoglossal nerve palsies. Case: We report a case of a 53-year-old man with dysphagia found to have a left hypoglossal nerve palsy secondary to vascular compression from the basilar artery confirmed by electrodiagnostic and radiographic studies and we provide a review of the electrodiagnostic evaluation of the hypoglossal nerve.