A Rare Case of Hemoptysis Caused by a Laryngeal Leech

Abstract

The larynx is an uncommon location for live foreign bodies. The leech can reach the glottis during consumption of contaminated water but is usually expelled by an effective cough reflex. Patients present with hoarseness and dysphagia and occasionally with dyspnea or hemoptysis. Endoscopically, a mobile mass is usually noted in the supraglottic area. We present a rare case of a laryngeal leech in a 62-year-old-male farmer who lives in a rural area. The leech was removed successfully with direct laryngoscopy under general anesthesia.