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Laryngomalacia

The most common cause of stridor in newborns is laryngeal tissue softness.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Laryngomalacia?

Laryngomalacia occurs due to immaturity of laryngeal cartilage and mucosa or lack of neuromuscular coordination, causing supralaryngeal structures to collapse into the lumen during inspiration. It is responsible for 60-75% of newborn stridor cases.

Stridor usually becomes prominent in the days to weeks after birth, peaks at 4-8 months and resolves spontaneously by 18-24 months in most cases. It worsens during feeding or supine position and improves in prone position.

Difficulty in suckling, growth retardation and hypoxia may be seen in severe cases; endoscopic supraglottoplasty (with laser or scissors) is indicated in these cases.

Symptoms

High-pitched inspiratory stridor starting after birth
Worsening of stridor during meals or in supine position
Decreased noise in prone position
Difficulty in suckling and milk regurgitation (in severe cases)
Growth retardation (if feeding problem exists)
Cyanosis (rare, but in severe cases)

Risk Factors

Male gender (slight predominance)
Concomitant gastroesophageal reflux (GER)
Neuromuscular diseases
Conditions causing hypotonia such as Down syndrome
Prematurity
Family history of laryngomalacia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If persistent or worsening stridor in newborn
  • When difficulty in suckling and inadequate weight gain begin
  • Go to emergency when cyanosis or apnea attacks are seen
  • When breathing sounds during sleep are concerning

Treatment Methods

01
Mild cases: observation and parent education, positioning (prone position contraindicated, lateral position recommended)
02
Reflux treatment: anti-reflux therapy with concomitant GER
03
Nutritional support: high calorie formula or NG tube feeding
04
Endoscopic supraglottoplasty: in severe or growth-restricted cases
05
Tracheostomy: very rare, in severe cases unresponsive to medical and surgical treatment
06
Spontaneous resolution: >90% of cases resolve by age 2

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.