American journal of otolaryngology
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Case Reports
Wegener's granulomatosis of the pediatric airway: a case demonstrating a conservative management approach.
Subglottic stenosis is found in 10% to 20% of patients with Wegener's granulomatosis, and at times, it may be the only indication of disease. This is particularly a problem in childhood-onset Wegener's granulomatosis, which is complicated 5 times more by subglottic and tracheal stenosis than in adult-onset disease. Because this is a rare disease that is often misdiagnosed as reactive airway disease in childhood, the discovery of subglottic stenosis is delayed until much of the chronic damage has already been done. This report discusses the diagnosis and management of a 12-year-old male with a severe, actively inflamed subglottis and trachea because of Wegener's granulomatosis. ⋯ Treatment of an actively inflamed trachea with subglottic stenosis because of Wegener's granulomatosis should focus on medical therapy, including steroids, before making attempts at surgical intervention.
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Head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors have substantial psychological distress in addition to treatment-related side effects. This study examines the long-term quality of life (QOL) of HNC survivors in a busy tertiary care center. ⋯ Quality of life questionnaires provide a medium for patients to effectively communicate with their physician in a busy tertiary care facility and provide an insight into the physical, psychological, and social problems affecting our patients which can then direct future interventions.