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Published on: January 21, 2020
Idiopathic cervical tracheal stenosis in an 11-year-old male
Matthew R Hoffman1, Katrina M Thompson2, Jessica Van Beek-King1
1University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Surgery - Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Madison, WI 53792, USA.
Insights
Idiopathic laryngotracheal stenosis, a rare airway condition, typically affects adult females. This case study details its occurrence in an 11-year-old male, emphasizing the need for broader diagnostic considerations in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Idiopathic laryngotracheal stenosis (ILTS) is a fibroinflammatory condition.
- ILTS typically affects adult females of child-bearing age.
- Causes like trauma, intubation, or autoimmune disease are excluded in ILTS.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old male presented with progressive dyspnea and stridor.
- Bronchoscopy showed severe (90%) cervical tracheal stenosis.
- The patient had no history of trauma or intubation.
Findings:
- The patient underwent serial balloon dilation and steroid injections.
- Tracheal stenosis improved significantly to 20%.
- Autoimmune disease workup was negative, confirming idiopathic nature.
Implications:
- This case highlights ILTS in an atypical pediatric population.
- It underscores the importance of considering ILTS in children with airway restriction.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing pediatric airway stenosis.
Abstract:
Idiopathic laryngotracheal stenosis is a fibroinflammatory stenosis in persons without alternative explanation such as trauma, intubation, or autoimmune disease. Patients are usually females of child-bearing age. We report on an 11-year-old male who developed progressive dyspnea and stridor. Bronchoscopy revealed 90% stenosis of the cervical trachea. He underwent serial balloon dilation with steroid injection; stenosis decreased to 20%. He had no history of intubation or trauma. Histologic and laboratory workup for autoimmune disease was negative. This report highlights occurrence of a well-known disease in an uncommon population, and alerts providers to consider this when seeing new pediatric patients with symptoms of progressive airway restriction.
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