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Unusual cystic hypopharyngeal mass in a child with obstructive symptoms

Mithun Roy1, Vedantam Rupa, A N Deepthi

  • 1Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamilnadu 632004 India.

Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery : Official Publication of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India
|July 4, 2012
PubMed

Insights

A rare cystic mass on the posterior pharyngeal wall caused severe breathing and swallowing issues in a child. Delayed diagnosis due to prior surgery without biopsy led to a foregut duplication cyst diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Posterior pharyngeal wall masses are uncommon in pediatric patients.
  • Foregut duplication cysts can present with diverse and severe symptoms in children.

Observation:

  • A 5-year-old child presented with congenital recurrent aspiration pneumonia, dysphagia, and airway obstruction.
  • Initial surgical intervention without biopsy resulted in a significant delay in diagnosis and treatment.

Findings:

  • Transoral wide excisional biopsy confirmed the mass as a foregut duplication cyst.
  • This represents one of only seven reported cases in the English literature.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of prompt and accurate diagnosis, including biopsy, for pediatric pharyngeal masses.
  • Emphasizes the rarity and potential diagnostic challenges of foregut duplication cysts.
  • Underscores the need for comprehensive evaluation in pediatric patients with persistent respiratory and swallowing difficulties.

Keywords:
Congenital cystEnterocystomaHypopharynx

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