Subglottic stenosis

Subglottic stenosis is a medical condition characterized by a narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords and above the trachea. This condition can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life due to injury or illness.

Causes

Subglottic stenosis can be caused by a variety of factors. Congenital subglottic stenosis is often due to a malformation of the cricoid cartilage or the presence of abnormal tissue in the subglottic area. Acquired subglottic stenosis can result from prolonged intubation, trauma to the neck, or diseases such as lupus, Wegener's granulomatosis, or sarcoidosis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of subglottic stenosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include stridor (a high-pitched, wheezing sound), difficulty breathing, recurrent pneumonia, and failure to thrive in infants. In severe cases, subglottic stenosis can lead to life-threatening airway obstruction.

Diagnosis

Subglottic stenosis is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. A laryngoscopy may be performed to visualize the airway. Other diagnostic tests may include a CT scan or MRI of the neck.

Treatment

Treatment for subglottic stenosis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In mild cases, observation and management of symptoms may be sufficient. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. This can include endoscopic surgery, laser surgery, or tracheostomy.

See also

• Airway obstruction
• Laryngomalacia
• Tracheomalacia

Subglottic stenosis Resources
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