High-rising epiglottis in children: should it cause concern?
An omega-shaped epiglottis is frequently associated with laryngomalacia. However, an elongated high-rising epiglottis can represent a normal variation of the larynx in a majority of pediatric patients. It is important to consider this in a healthy child with no complaints apart from the sensation of a foreign body in throat. This will avoid triggering any unnecessary investigation or treatment. An elongated epiglottis projecting in the oropharynx can appear as a foreign body and be a source of anxiety for the parents as well as the unaware family practitioner. We present such a case, with a brief discussion of the pediatric larynx and the omega-shaped epiglottis.
Petkar
Nadeem
N
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Whipps Cross University, NHS Hospital NHS Trust, Leytonstone, London, UK. napetkar@yahoo.com
Georgalas
Christos
C
Bhattacharyya
Abir
A
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004825:Epiglottis / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005260:Female; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans