Subglottic stenosis secondary to extramedullary hematopoiesis in a patient with postpolycythemia myeloid metaplasia.

BACKGROUND

Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) is known to occur in myeloproliferative disorders and hemoglobinopathies and is usually seen in the spleen and liver.

METHODS

We report the first case of EMH causing subglottic stenosis in a woman with postpolycythemia myeloid metaplasia (PPMM). A tracheotomy was performed to maintain the airway and local radiotherapy was given.

RESULTS

Two months after the radiotherapy was completed laryngoscopy showed an unobstructed airway with no evidence of disease, and the patient was successfully decanulated. Magnetic resonance imaging 8 months after radiotherapy confirmed the absence of local disease.

CONCLUSION

Consideration should be given to EMH as a possible cause of airway obstruction in the differential diagnosis of a patient with a history of PPMM.