UNUSUAL LARYNGEAL CYSTS IN THE NEWBORN

In the newborn, severe airway obstruction is a rare occurrence. The po ssible etiologies include a broad spectrum of diseases with laryngeal cysts an unusual cause. If diagnosed and properly managed, however, th e prognosis for this entity is excellent. Three cases presenting with airway obstruction secondary to unusual laryngeal cysts are the materi al for this report. In all three, cases the laryngeal cystic structure extended through the cricothyroid membrane and in two, pathologically contained both mesodermal and endodermal elements suggesting a laryng otracheal duplication cyst anomaly, previously unreported. Laryngofiss ure can be safely employed for complete excision even in the neonatal period.