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Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
07:54

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Obstructive sleep apnea induced by a parapharyngeal cystic hygroma in an infant

A Kahn1, D Blum, A Hoffman

  • 1Free University of Brussels, Belgium.

Sleep
|December 1, 1985
PubMed

Insights

A rare neck tumor caused severe obstructive sleep apnea in an infant. Surgical removal resolved the condition, highlighting the need for thorough diagnosis in pediatric sleep apnea.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Otolaryngology
  • Medical Genetics

Background:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in infants can stem from various causes, including anatomical abnormalities.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing severe pediatric OSA and preventing long-term health issues.

Observation:

  • A 7-week-old infant presented with severe obstructive sleep apnea, documented by polysomnography showing 455 obstructive apneas nightly, averaging 34 seconds each.
  • A parapharyngeal cystic hygroma, a neck tumor, was identified as the underlying cause of the infant's severe obstructive sleep apnea.

Findings:

  • Surgical excision of the parapharyngeal cystic hygroma led to a dramatic improvement in the infant's condition.
  • Follow-up polygraphic recordings normalized, and the infant remained stable for 10 months post-surgery, indicating a complete resolution of OSA.

Implications:

  • This case highlights cystic hygromas as a rare but significant cause of severe obstructive sleep apnea in infants.
  • Emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach to identify and treat the root causes of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea.

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