Laryngomalacia

Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of chronic stridor in infancy, in which the soft, immature cartilage of the upper larynx collapses inward during inhalation, causing obstruction of the airways. It can also be seen in older patients, especially those with neuromuscular conditions resulting in weakness of the muscles of the throat. However, the infantile form is much more common. Laryngomalacia is one of the most common laryngeal congenital diseases in infancy. Although, most infants have mild symptoms and do not require surgery, those with more severe symptoms including feeding and breathing difficulties may require surgery.

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