Congenital laryngeal atresia: two autopsy cases, one describing the use of computed tomography

Abstract

Two autopsy cases of congenital laryngeal atresia (CLA) were studied. In the first case (a boy delivered at 37 weeks of gestation) the subglottic lumen was almost totally occupied by a dome shaped cricoid cartilage with a pharyngotracheal duct (PTD). No tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) was found. In the second case (a girl born at 41 weeks of gestation) histology showed that the subglottic lumen was almost occluded by an epithelial lamina and a dome-shaped cricoid cartilage. Again no TEF was found. Both cases had PTD and showed normal development of the lungs. These deformities coincided with Smith & Bain's type II subglottic atresia. The anatomy of the lesion was confirmed by postmortem three-dimensional reconstruction CT, the use of which has not previously been reported.

Utility of a Partial Autopsy: A Case Report of Congenital Laryngeal Atresia

“…Congenital laryngeal atresia may be an isolated finding, associated with other unrelated anomalies, or a component of a defined syndrome, of which Fraser syndrome is the most common [5]. Associated congenital anomalies reported in the literature include TEF, tracheal atresia, esophageal atresia, abnormalities of the urinary tract, cardiac anomalies, limb defects, encephalocele, and an imperforate anus [1,3,6]. The most common of these anomalies is TEF, which if present may enable esophageal intubation and temporary successful ventilation.…”

Recent Advances in Postmortem Forensic Radiology

“…This dual examination technique has been demonstrated in a separate, though nonmedical, study. Two cases reported by Asano et al detailed the digital 3D reconstruction of resected fetal laryngeal structures, confirming the presence of congenital laryngeal atresia (66). Such studies may negate the need for serial sections from whole tissue autopsy preparations, a situation ideally suited to the current climate regarding tissue retention.…”