Idiopathic subglottic stenosis ‘at a glance’

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the air way which affects mainly women of European descent between the ages of 30-50, with the cause still a mystery. This article explains what nurses need to know about this rare condition. Idiopathic subglottic stenosis (ISGS) is a rare condition of unknown aetiology that primarily affects women of European descent in their third to fifth decade of life. The signs and symptoms are often insidious, leading individuals to seek healthcare only when their quality of life is significantly affected. Patients with ISGS often experience lengthy (mis)diagnosis journeys, and there is no known cure. Current treatment regimens aim to reduce symptom burden and prolong intervals between procedures due to the high recurrence rate of stenosis. Nurses play a pivotal role in educating patients about rare diseases, helping them understand their condition and providing skills for self-monitoring.