BIFID EPIGLOTTIS

The true bifid epiglottis is a rare congenital anomaly typically disco vered during the evaluation of strider in an infant or newborn. While it is not classified as a specific syndrome, there are frequent associ ations of other congenital anomalies with the bifid epiglottis. These include midline defects (such as microphallus, hypospadius, imperforat e anus, and midline laryngeal cleft), endocrine disorders (including c ongenital hypopituitarism), and central nervous system neoplasms, incl uding hypothalamic hamartoblastoma. The embryogenesis and options for surgical management of this anomaly are reviewed, and one case is pres ented in detail.