Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026
Author Spotlight: Effect of Left Atrial Ligation on Avian Embryonic Hearts and HLHS Implications
Published on: June 16, 2023
Large laryngeal vascular malformation in a 5-year-old child
Christian Sander Danstrup1, Mette Hjørringgaard Madsen2, Jesper Bille1
1Ear, Nose and Throat Department, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
Insights
A rare arteriovenous malformation (AVM) caused persistent stridor in a child, initially misdiagnosed. Prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are crucial for managing complex vascular anomalies.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- A 5-year-old boy presented with persistent stridor and hoarseness, initially suspected as subglottic laryngitis.
- Standard treatments for laryngitis, including epinephrine and glucocorticoids, were ineffective, prompting further investigation.
Observation:
- Clinical presentation included prolonged hoarseness and a deep voice, atypical for subglottic laryngitis.
- Direct laryngoscopy and blood work did not confirm the initial diagnosis.
Findings:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and subsequent angiography revealed a bilateral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the lingual and superior thyroid arteries.
- The extensive nature of this AVM necessitated referral to a specialized center for treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights diagnostic challenges in pediatric stridor, emphasizing the need for advanced imaging when initial assessments are inconclusive.
- It underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in diagnosing and managing rare vascular malformations.
Abstract:
A 5-year-old boy was admitted with stridor, which was initially interpreted as subglottic laryngitis. He had a history of prolonged hoarseness and his voice was deep for his age. The stridor persisted despite treatment with epinephrine inhalations and intravenous glucocorticoids. A direct laryngoscopy and blood work up did not support the suspected diagnosis. A MRI was then carried out, followed by angiography. The latter revealed an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) involving the lingual and superior thyroid arteries bilaterally. Owing to the rareness and extent of such an AVM, the patient was referred to Paris for further treatment. This case presents the difficulties in diagnostics and emphasises the importance of diagnostics and multidisciplinary approaches with regard to treatment of AVMs.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids,...
01:28Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
01:24Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
01:30Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques