Congenital vallecular cyst: a cause of failure to thrive

Congenital vallecular cysts are fairly uncommon, but can lead to death. They may present as failure to thrive. This case emphasises the value of plain radiographs of the neck. Direct laryngoscopy is mandatory to confirm diagnosis and ablate the lesion satisfactorily. Laryngomalacia should be a diagnosis of exclusion. Adequate marsupialisation is necessary to prevent recurrence.