laryngomalacia
Pronunciation: lar-IN-go-mah-LAY-sha
A congenital condition where immature laryngeal cartilage causes airway obstruction and stridor in infants.
Full Definition
Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of stridor in newborns and infants, characterized by immature, floppy supraglottic cartilage that collapses inward during inspiration. This collapse can cause inspiratory stridor, feeding difficulties, and in severe cases, failure to thrive or cyanotic episodes. The condition typically improves as the laryngeal cartilage matures, usually by 18-24 months of age. Severe cases may require surgical intervention with supraglottoplasty to remove excess tissue and stabilize the airway.
Usage
Usage note: Note the specific pronunciation; commonly mispronounced by non-specialists.
In Context
- "The infant presented with inspiratory stridor consistent with laryngomalacia." — Emergency department note
- "Flexible laryngoscopy confirmed the diagnosis of severe laryngomalacia requiring surgical intervention." — Operative report