The Perils of Pregnancy: A Case Report of Subglottic Stenosis

Subglottic stenosis (SGS) presents a rare, yet challenging condition characterized by airway obstruction below the glottis, with diverse etiologies ranging from congenital to acquired factors like intubation or autoimmune diseases. Diagnosis and management of SGS during pregnancy are particularly complex due to limited literature and diagnostic consensus. This article presents a case of a 26-year-old pregnant woman presenting with escalating dyspnea and stridor attributed to SGS, most likely secondary to idiopathic etiology. Initial assessments, including a CT scan and fiberoptic laryngoscopy, confirmed the diagnosis of SGS showing a narrow subglottic trachea. Given the complexity of the case, she was transferred to a tertiary care center where she underwent CO2 laser excision, balloon dilation, and submucosal Triamcinolone injection. Pre and postoperatively, the patient was managed with corticosteroids, antibiotics, and bronchodilators. Her condition improved significantly, as evidenced by a follow-up strobovideolaryngoscopy on day 15, which showed a symmetric vocal fold, adequate vibratory motion, and widely patent subglottic larynx. This report emphasizes the importance of tailored, multidisciplinary management of SGS during pregnancy, with endoscopic resection and adjuvant therapies proving to be effective interventions. Regular follow-up is crucial due to the potential for recurrence within three years post-treatment.