Subglottic cysts in a patient with recurrent stridor and respiratory distress

Serap Ozmen1, Umit Murat Sahiner, Ismail Balaban

  • 1Allergy Unit, Dr. Sami Ulus Children's Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.

Insights

Subglottic cysts, a rare cause of infant stridor, can be successfully treated by rupturing them during flexible bronchoscopy. Early diagnosis and intervention prevent serious complications like fibrotic stenosis and the need for tracheotomy.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Subglottic cysts are uncommon causes of stridor in infants.
  • History of prematurity and intubation increases suspicion for subglottic cysts.

Observation:

  • A 15-month-old male infant presented with recurrent stridor and respiratory distress.
  • The infant had a history of prematurity and intubation.

Findings:

  • Diagnosis revealed two subglottic cysts located below the glottis.
  • Flexible bronchoscopy was used to rupture the cysts.

Implications:

  • Rupturing subglottic cysts via bronchoscopy effectively resolved the infant's stridor and respiratory distress.
  • Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid potential fibrotic stenosis and the need for tracheotomy.

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