Chronic non-granulomatous supraglottitis: a rare and difficult disease

To examine chronic non-granulomatous supraglottitis, a rare disorder of uncertain aetiology with few reported cases in the literature. We describe two cases of chronic non-granulomatous supraglottitis that led to persistent respiratory compromise. Patients underwent extensive investigation that failed to reveal a definitive diagnosis. In patients suffering from chronic inflammation of the supraglottic larynx without evidence of infection, neoplasm or granulomatous disease, many disorders must be ruled out in order to diagnose chronic non-granulomatous supraglottitis, which is a diagnosis of exclusion. We review the literature on this rare entity, discuss current management strategies, and suggest an algorithm for diagnostic investigation.