Unusual laryngeal cysts in the newborn

In the newborn, severe airway obstruction is a rare occurrence. The possible etiologies include a broad spectrum of diseases with laryngeal cysts an unusual cause. If diagnosed and properly managed, however, the prognosis for this entity is excellent. Three cases presenting with airway obstruction secondary to unusual laryngeal cysts are the material for this report. In all three, cases the laryngeal cystic structure extended through the cricothyroid membrane and in two, pathologically contained both mesodermal and endodermal elements suggesting a laryngotracheal duplication cyst anomaly, previously unreported. Laryngofissure can be safely employed for complete excision even in the neonatal period.