Subglottic stenosis secondary to extramedullary hematopoiesis in a patientwith postpolycythemia myeloid metaplasia

Background. Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) is known to occur in myelopr oliferative disorders and hemoglobinopathies and is usually seen in the spl een and liver. Methods. We report the first case of EMH causing subglottic stenosis in a w oman with postpolycythemia myeloid metaplasia (PPMM). A tracheotomy was per formed to maintain the airway and local radiotherapy was given. Results. Two months after the radiotherapy was completed laryngoscopy showe d an unobstructed airway with no evidence of disease, and the patient was s uccessfully decanulated. Magnetic resonance imaging 8 months after radiothe rapy confirmed the absence of local disease. Conclusion. Consideration should be given to EMH as a possible cause of air way obstruction in the differential diagnosis of a patient with a history o f PPMM. (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.