Upper airway abnormalities in Canavan disease.
OBJECTIVE: To describe upper airway anatomical abnormalities associated with Canavan disease. METHODS: Retrospective case report. RESULTS: Physical examination and laryngoscopy demonstrated oropharyngeal narrowing, macroglossia, and bronchial asymmetry in a child with Canavan disease. Tracheostomy decreased problems with chronic aspiration and obstructive sleep apnea. CONCLUSIONS: Oropharyngeal obstruction and bronchial asymmetry are previously undescribed upper airway abnormalities found in an individual with Canavan disease. Tracheostomy is an effective method of managing chronic aspiration and obstruction in these patients.
Airway Obstruction↗