Myeloid sarcoma: an unusual presentation for acute tracheal stenosis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Extramedullary involvement of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is rare and has been reported under the terms myeloid sarcoma (MS), granulocytic sarcoma, chloroma, extramedullary acute myeloid leukemia, myeloblastoma and myelosarcoma. The most common extramedullary involvement includes soft tissues and lymph nodes, but it may arise in different sites of the body. There are only very few reports about MS in the pulmonary system, and involvement of the trachea is extremely rare.

METHODS

This is the first report of initial presentation of MS by severe acute tracheal stenosis.

RESULTS

After failed tracheal dilatation, a tracheostomy was performed where tracheal tissue was submitted for pathology. Histology of the tracheal biopsy and bone marrow revealed AML. The patient was subsequently referred to our oncology service for further management.

CONCLUSION

Myeloid sarcoma should be part of the differential for acute tracheal stenosis.