Granular cell tumor mimicking a subglottic hemangioma

Pediatric airway tumors are uncommon. A 4-year-old girl with history of stridor since the first year of life underwent rigid laryngotracheal endoscopy revealing a left posterolateral subglottic mass occluding 80% of lumen. Complete tumor resection by open approach was undertaken. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical studies revealed granular cells tumor. The similarity of the clinical and endoscopic presentation of this tumor to the much more frequent subglottic hemangioma that usually requires a different therapeutic approach was of interest. Granular cell tumor must be considered in the differential diagnosis of upper airway obstructive symptoms in infancy and childhood.