Laryngomalacia

Laryngomalacia
Omega-shaped epiglottis, seen in laryngomalacia
Specialty	Otorhinolaryngology

Laryngomalacia (literally, "soft larynx") is the most common cause of chronic stridor in infancy, in which the soft, immature cartilage of the upper larynx collapses inward during inhalation, causing obstruction of the airways. It can also be seen in older patients, especially those with neuromuscular conditions resulting in weakness of the muscles of the throat. However, the infantile form is much more common. Laryngomalacia is one of the most common laryngeal congenital diseases in infancy and public education about the signs and symptoms of the disease is lacking.