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Multiple system atrophy as a cause of upper airway obstruction
Author(s) -
Lim Y. S.,
Kennedy N. J.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
anaesthesia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.839
H-Index - 117
eISSN - 1365-2044
pISSN - 0003-2409
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2044.2007.05227.x
Subject(s) - medicine , stridor , sore throat , dysphagia , airway obstruction , airway , throat , anesthesia , surgery , atrophy , nose , arytenoid cartilage , laryngoscopy , larynx , intubation
Summary A patient presented to the ear, nose and throat department with inspiratory stridor, dysphagia and a sore throat. Clinical and radiological examination was normal. During induction of anaesthesia for a planned microlaryngoscopy, the patient developed complete upper airway obstruction that was overcome by applying positive pressure via a facepiece until awake. He subsequently developed respiratory failure, requiring mechanical ventilatory support. An elective tracheostomy was inserted for his symptoms. Neurological opinion confirmed the diagnosis of multiple system atrophy with akinetic rigid syndrome. We review this obscure condition and how it may occasionally present to anaesthetists.