Tracheal amyloidosis-an unusual cause of stridor

by Emer E. Lang, FRCS(ORL), Eimear Phelan, AFRCSI, and Helena Rowley, FRCS(ORL) | Friday, May 01, 2009

IntroductionAmyloidosis is not a single disease entity but rather a diverse group of disease processes characterized by extracellular tissue deposits of protein materials, in one or many organs, that are generically termed amyloid. These proteins exist in amounts sufficient to impair normal function, and they have typical staining properties and a typical electron microscopic appearance. The cause of amyloid production and its deposition in tissues is unknown. Amyloid tissue confined to the trachea is not only a rare entity, but it is also challenging to treat. This case highlights some of the treatment options and difficulties that may be encountered.Case reportA 63-year-old man presented to an ENT outpatient clinic with a 6-week history of dysphonia. Assessment with fibreoptic nasopharyngoscopy in the clinic revealed a slightly thickened area in the region of the anterior commissure. Microlaryngoscopy showed some inflammation of the anterior third of the glottis, and biopsy of this .../continued/

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