An unusual case of noisy breathing in an infant

Abstract

Laryngomalacia is a common cause of chronic noisy breathing that can present as stridor in infants and neonates. Mild cases of laryngomalacia are usually followed clinically and managed conservatively. However, the evaluation and diagnosis could be challenging in some patients. We present a case of a 3-week-old male infant with persistent and worsening noisy breathing, snoring, and poor weight gain, prompting further evaluation. The patient had an initial diagnosis of laryngomalacia and obstructive sleep apnea with complete resolution of loud breathing with continuous positive airway pressure. A repeated evaluation of the upper airway for further investigation led to the diagnosis of a neck mass compressing the airway. We review the clinical presentation, management, and follow-up of this patient, as well as the literature of possible etiologies. In the case of our patient, timely diagnosis and treatment had significant prognostic implications.