Cries, Stridor, and Clues: Unmasking a Rare Airway Obstruction in an Infant

Laryngomalacia is the predominant cause of airway obstruction resulting in stridor among newborns, constituting a significant percentage of all congenital stridor instances. Vallecular cysts, though rare, represent an important differential diagnosis, responsible for a notable percentage of all congenital laryngeal cysts. The frequency of vallecular cysts is considered low among newborns. We report a vallecular cyst case in a baby who had respiratory distress and inspiratory stridor. Diagnosis was made by direct laryngoscopy, and the cyst was completely excised, resulting in the resolution of symptoms. On follow-up after a few months, there was no evidence of recurrence. This case is documented due to its rarity and to enhance awareness of vallecular cysts as a possible etiology of stridor and respiratory distress in babies. It also emphasizes the importance of thorough clinical assessment and interdisciplinary evaluation. Furthermore, the case highlights the effectiveness of complete excision over marsupialization in preventing recurrence.