Laryngeal cleft and eosinophilic gastroenteritis: report of 2 cases

Although laryngotracheoesophageal clefts are often found in association with other well-described anomalies, we know of no previous reported association with eosinophilic gastroenteritis, a disorder of unknown etiology characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract. We treated 2 children who had laryngeal clefts and eosinophilic gastroenteritis. Since the esophageal inflammatory changes found in eosinophilic gastroenteritis may persist despite aggressive therapy, management of the laryngotracheoesophageal clefts is more complicated. The diagnosis of eosinophilic gastroenteritis should not be overlooked in patients with laryngotracheoesophageal clefts and warrants prompt referral to a pediatric gastroenterologist.