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Otolaryngology (ENT)17 papers

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (ISS) is a rare, progressive condition characterized by narrowing of the subglottic airway, leading to respiratory symptoms and potentially life-threatening airway obstruction 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical presentation includes dyspnea, stridor, and dysphonia 1.
  • Flexible laryngoscopy is essential for visualization and grading of stenosis 1.
  • Grading systems (e.g., Cotton-Myer scale) help assess severity 1.
  • Imaging (CT/MRI) may be used to evaluate extent and complications 1.

    • Management

  • Primary treatment involves endoscopic dilatation and stenting 1.
  • Adjunctive therapies include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation 1.
  • Surgical interventions (e.g., partial cricoid resection) may be necessary for severe cases 1.
  • Long-term management focuses on preventing recurrence through regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications 1.

    • Special Populations

  • No specific guidelines provided in the abstracts for pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities related to ISS management 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize flexible laryngoscopy for initial diagnosis and grading of idiopathic subglottic stenosis (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Employ endoscopic dilatation as the first-line treatment approach for managing ISS (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Incorporate corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy to control inflammation (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Consider surgical interventions for severe cases refractory to endoscopic management (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • Implement regular follow-up to monitor for recurrence and adjust management accordingly (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).

    • References

    1 Heward E, Kumar BN. The ENT run through pilot: a questionnaire survey of 23 trainees. The Journal of laryngology and otology 2021. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      The ENT run through pilot: a questionnaire survey of 23 trainees. — Heward E, Kumar BN The Journal of laryngology and otology (2021)
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