Congenital laryngotracheoesophageal cleft masquerading as recurrent pneumonia

Abstract

Laryngotracheoesophageal cleft (LTEC) is a uncommon congenital malformation of the posterior part of the larynx, creating an abnormal communication between the laryngotracheal axis and the pharyngo- oesophageal axis. Tins condition manifest with non-specific respiratory symptoms, posing diagnostic challenge. Here we report a case of 75 days old infant with recurrent pneumonia and acute life threatening event manifested as milk aspiration. On endoscopic evaluation type 1 LTEC (Laryngeo trachea esophageal cleft) was diagnosed. Intervention/Outcome : Infant was managed conservatively and doing well on follow up.

Keywords

• laryngotracheoesophageal cleft
• recurrent pneumonia
• aspiration
• ltec has to be highly suspected in case of recurrent pneumonia and aspiration