Laryngeal hamartoma: a rare congenital abnormality

Hamartoma is a rare congenital abnormality of the larynx that must be considered in the differential diagnosis of benign lesions of the larynx. Presenting symptoms may include changes in voice, eating, and activity levels, and respiratory complaints. We treated a 2 1/2-year-old boy with an 8-month history of upper airway compromise. Radiographic studies showed a rounded, right-sided, supraglottic soft tissue mass. Direct laryngoscopy revealed a well-mucosalized, encapsulated, firm 3 x 2.5-cm mass that originated from the right supraglottic structures. The mass was excised endoscopically. Histologic examination revealed a hamartoma. At 18 months, the patient has had an uneventful postoperative course.