Postcricoid vascular lesion in an infant

A 7-months-old female presented with coughing spells while feeding. Flexible laryngoscopy revealed a round bluish mass, emanating from the postcricoid area when the child cried or strained and disappeared when she relaxed. She was treated with systemic steroids for a month and was doing well. There was no change in the lesion. On examination at age 18 months the lesion disappeared. In a review of the literature, the authors found 6 articles describing 19 children with postcricoid vascular lesions. Seven children did not have significant related problems and did well without any treatment. Eight cases had significant co-morbidity. Treatment for symptomatic children included systemic or intralesion steroids, laser ablation and open resection. Postcricoid vascular lesion is a rare entity with a typical appearance. The recommended workup includes flexible laryngoscopy and videofluoroscopy. There are several treatment options for symptomatic children.