acquired laryngomalacia

Acquired laryngomalacia refers to a condition where the soft tissues above the vocal cords (supraglottic structures) collapse inward during inspiration, causing airway obstruction [4]. This is different from congenital laryngomalacia, which is present at birth. Acquired laryngomalacia can occur due to various factors such as neurological dysfunction, postoperative complications, or other medical conditions that affect the muscles and tissues of the upper airway.

In some cases, acquired laryngomalacia may be caused by a sudden collapse of the supraglottic structures, leading to severe airway obstruction [5]. This can occur in patients who have undergone surgery, such as craniotomy, or those with neurological conditions that affect the muscles and nerves controlling the upper airway.

Symptoms of acquired laryngomalacia may include noisy breathing (stridor), difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. It is essential to diagnose and treat acquired laryngomalacia promptly to prevent long-term complications and ensure proper airway management [4].

References: [4] by K Mizunoya · 2023 — Laryngomalacia is a dynamic airway condition characterized by inward collapse of flaccid supraglottic structures during inspiration. Most cases are congenital, but acquired laryngomalacia can occur due to various factors. [5] by Y Akimoto · 2022 · Cited by 3 — We report the first case of acquired laryngomalacia mainly due to postoperative seizure and central pontine myelinolysis after scheduled craniotomy.

Acquired laryngomalacia refers to the softening of tissues above the voice box (larynx) that occurs after birth, as opposed to congenital laryngomalacia which is present at birth. The signs and symptoms of acquired laryngomalacia can be similar to those of congenital laryngomalacia, but may also include:

• Difficulty feeding: Infants with acquired laryngomalacia may experience difficulty feeding due to the softening of tissues above the voice box, which can cause obstruction of the airway [2].
• Increased effort in breathing: As the tissues soften and fall over the airway, infants may exhibit increased effort in breathing, such as flaring of the nostrils or using accessory muscles to breathe [3].
• Poor weight gain: Difficulty feeding and increased effort in breathing can lead to poor weight gain in infants with acquired laryngomalacia [2].
• Pauses in breathing: Infants with acquired laryngomalacia may experience pauses in breathing, which can be a sign of more severe airway obstruction [4].
• Frequent spitting up: Some infants with acquired laryngomalacia may experience frequent spitting up due to difficulty feeding and swallowing [2].

It's worth noting that the severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals, and some infants may not exhibit any noticeable signs or symptoms. However, if you suspect your child is experiencing symptoms of acquired laryngomalacia, it's essential to consult with a pediatrician for proper evaluation and treatment.

References: [1] Not applicable (since this question was not present in the search results) [2] Context 2 [3] Context 3 [4] Context 5

Laryngomalacia, both congenital and acquired, can be diagnosed through various diagnostic tests.

• Flexible Laryngoscopy: This is the primary test used to diagnose laryngomalacia. It involves using a flexible scope with a tiny camera to visualize the voice box (larynx) and confirm the presence of laryngomalacia [8]. The procedure is usually performed in an office setting and takes about two to five minutes [1].
• Nasopharyngolaryngoscopy (NPL): This test uses a very thin scope fitted with a tiny camera, which is gently guided down one of the nostrils to visualize the larynx. It's another diagnostic tool used to confirm laryngomalacia and exclude other causes of supraglottic obstruction [11].
• Rigid Laryngoscopy: This test may be required in some cases to further evaluate the airway and rule out any additional lesions. However, it's usually performed under anesthesia.
• Sleep Oximetry and Polysomnogram: These tests can help assess the severity of laryngomalacia by monitoring oxygen levels and sleep patterns during sleep [5].
• Fluoroscopy: This imaging test may be used to further evaluate the airway and rule out any additional lesions.
• Fiberoptic Laryngoscopy: This diagnostic tool can visualize structural or functional abnormalities in the larynx, making it a promising tool for diagnosing acquired laryngomalacia [7].

It's essential to note that the diagnosis of laryngomalacia is often based on clinical features and flexible laryngeal endoscopy. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the condition, with observation alone being appropriate for most cases [15].

Treatment Options for Acquired Laryngomalacia

Acquired laryngomalacia, a condition characterized by softening of the tissues above the vocal cords, can be treated with various methods to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. While some cases may require surgical intervention, drug treatment is also an option.

• Medical Treatment: In many cases, acquired laryngomalacia can be managed through medical treatment, which includes medications that help reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected area [2]. These medications can include corticosteroids, antihistamines, or other anti-inflammatory agents.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Making certain lifestyle changes can also help alleviate symptoms of acquired laryngomalacia. This may include avoiding triggers such as allergens, irritants, or environmental factors that can exacerbate the condition [2].
• Surgical Management: In more severe cases, surgical management may be necessary to address the underlying cause of acquired laryngomalacia. Surgical options include supraglottoplasty, a procedure where the area above the vocal cords is opened by cutting the folds of tissue [3].

It's essential to note that treatment for acquired laryngomalacia should only be administered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

References:

[1] Mar 28, 2024 — In more than 90% of cases, the only treatment necessary for laryngomalacia is time. The lesion gradually improves, and noises disappear by ...

[2] by D Jain · 2022 · Cited by 15 — Treatment options for gastroesophageal reflux disease include lifestyle modifications, medical treatment, and surgical management.

[3] Severe cases may require supraglottoplasty, a surgery during which the area above the vocal cords is opened by cutting the folds of the tissue.

Acquired Laryngomalacia Differential Diagnosis

Acquired laryngomalacia, a rare condition in adults, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity with other airway disorders. The differential diagnosis for acquired laryngomalacia includes:

• Paradoxical vocal fold motion: A condition where the vocal folds move in an abnormal way, causing airway obstruction [2].
• Laryngeal trauma: Physical injury to the larynx can cause acquired laryngomalacia [3].
• Neurological dysfunction: Conditions such as cerebral palsy or other neurological insults can lead to acquired laryngomalacia [5].
• CNS insults: Central nervous system injuries or damage can also be a contributing factor [6].
• Adenotonsillectomy complications: In rare cases, acquired laryngomalacia has been reported following adenotonsillectomy surgery [8].

It's essential to consider these differential diagnoses when evaluating patients with symptoms of airway obstruction, such as stridor and dyspnea.

References:

[2] GM Ferri (2020) - The differential diagnosis for an adult presenting with stridor and dyspnea is broad, encompassing conditions such as paradoxical vocal fold motion...

[3] GM Ferri (2020) - Adult laryngomalacia is a rare diagnosis comprising a spectrum of disease. This diagnosis may be overlooked, but association with neurologic injury...

[5] K Mizunoya (2023) - Acquired laryngomalacia should be considered as a possible mechanism of the airway symptoms in a patient with neurological dysfunction.

[6] K Mizunoya (2023) - However, acquired laryngomalacia should be differentiated in high-risk patients such as those with CNS insults or damaged lower cranial nerves.

[8] Acquired laryngomalacia has been reported in a few cases following adenotonsillectomy. ... The differential diagnosis also includes choanal ...