Subglottic Hemangioma: A Hidden Cause of an Infant’s Respiratory Distress

TL;DR

A rare case of subglottic hemangioma in an infant is presented, highlighting its diagnostic challenges and successful treatment with propranolol.

Contribution

This case report provides insights into diagnosing and managing subglottic hemangioma, often misdiagnosed in infants.

Findings

Subglottic hemangioma was confirmed via CT angiogram and bronchoscopy in a three-month-old infant.

Treatment with propranolol led to significant improvement in respiratory distress.

The case underscores the need to consider subglottic hemangioma in infants with unresolved airway symptoms.

Abstract

Subglottic hemangiomas are uncommon forms of infantile vascular tumors often misdiagnosed due to symptom overlap with other conditions like laryngomalacia, bronchiolitis, and asthma. Early and accurate diagnosis is vital for effective management. This case report discusses a unique presentation of subglottic hemangioma in a three-month-old infant, highlighting its diagnostic challenge and management. It adds valuable insights into the differentiation of subglottic hemangioma from other common causes of respiratory distress in infants.

The infant presented with severe respiratory distress since birth, worsening over the last four weeks, accompanied by gastroesophageal reflux and poor weight gain. Initially, the case was suspected and treated as croup and laryngomalacia. A CT angiogram revealed a vascular lesion in the subglottic area, confirmed by flexible bronchoscopy as a hemangioma. Treatment with propranolol led to significant improvement.

Early diagnosis and treatment of subglottic hemangioma are crucial for a good prognosis. This case emphasizes the importance of considering subglottic hemangioma in infants with unresolved airway distress.

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