OBSTRUCTIVE LARYNGEAL DYSPNEA REVEALING A LARGE SUPRAGLOTTIC FIBROLIPOMA: A CASE REPORT

Background: Laryngeal fibrolipomas are exceptionally rare benign tumors composed of mature adipose and fibrous tissue. Their insidious growth and nonspecific symptoms can lead to delayed diagnosis and potential airway compromise. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 56-year-old male with a history of chronic smoking who presented with progressive dysphonia, dysphagia, and inspiratory dyspnea over nine months. Nasofibroscopy revealed a supraglottic mass obstructing the airway. CT imaging demonstrated a well-circumscribed, fat-density lesion suggestive of a fibrolipoma. Due to the risk of airway obstruction, a tracheotomy was performed prior to endoscopic excision via suspension microlaryngoscopy. A large pedunculated mass originating from the left aryepiglottic fold was completely resected. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of fibrolipoma. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, with complete symptom resolution and normal laryngeal healing at one-month follow-up. Conclusion: Although rare, fibrolipoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of supraglottic masses. Accurate diagnosis relies on combined clinical, radiologic, and histologic evaluation. Surgical excision remains the definitive treatment, and early recognition is essential to prevent life-threatening airway obstruction.