subglottic stenosis
Pronunciation: sub-GLOT-ik sten-OH-sis
Narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords, which can be congenital or acquired, causing stridor and respiratory distress in children.
Full Definition
A condition characterized by abnormal narrowing of the subglottic airway, defined as the region between the vocal cords and the inferior border of the cricoid cartilage. Congenital subglottic stenosis results from abnormal development of the cricoid cartilage, while acquired forms commonly result from prolonged intubation trauma in premature infants or other causes of laryngeal injury. The condition presents with biphasic stridor, particularly inspiratory stridor, and can cause significant respiratory distress. CT and MRI imaging help assess the degree and extent of stenosis, while bronchoscopy provides direct visualization and measurement of the narrowed airway for surgical planning.
Usage
Usage note: Location is key - subglottic refers specifically to below the vocal cords; distinguish from supraglottic causes of stridor.
In Context
- "High-resolution CT demonstrated severe subglottic stenosis with the airway narrowed to 2mm diameter at the cricoid level." — Pediatric airway imaging
- "The infant's persistent stridor was attributed to congenital subglottic stenosis rather than laryngomalacia based on imaging findings." — Pediatric ENT consultation