Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2009
Abstract
We present a case report that describes the pathology, presentation, and management complexities of an unusual, destructive fibrosclerotic lesion of the laryngotracheal complex. An otherwise healthy 21-year-old man presented with a 1-year history of progressive shortness of breath and stridor. The initial examination revealed a 3-cm, grade III subglottic stenosis. Nodular fibrosis of the strap muscles, laryngotracheal cartilages, and trachea was evident. Biopsies revealed dense peritracheal desmoplastic reaction with focal erosion of cartilage. However, features diagnostic for relapsing polychondritis, desmoid tumor, or orbital pseudotumor were absent. The disease progressed to involve severe stenosis and thickening of the trachea and main stem bronchi. Surgical and medical management of this unusual fibrosclerotic lesion did not ameliorate the disease process, but a recent encouraging response to tamoxifen citrate has been observed with improvements in vocal fold motion and activity levels. Prognosis and management experience for this unknown pathologic entity are absent in the literature. In this case, diffuse disease progression occurred despite surgical and medical management, but has been halted by tamoxifen therapy. The prospect of a durable response and disease remission is unknown.
Recommended Citation
Johnston, Douglas R.; Curry, Joseph M.; Rubin, Raphael; and Rosen, Marc R., "Unusual fibrosclerotic lesion of the laryngotracheal complex presenting as subglottic stenosis." (2009). Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Faculty Papers. Paper 5.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/otofp/5
PubMed ID
19244960
Comments
This article has been peer reviewed. It was published in Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology. Volume 118, Issue 1, January 2009, Pages 27-29. Copyright ©Annals Publishing Company