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Self-inflicted traumatic macroglossia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

Aijaz Alvi  and
Philip A. Theodoropoulos
Aijaz Alvi*
Affiliation:
Division of Otolaryngology, Mount Sinai Hospital Medical Center, Chicago Medical School, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Philip A. Theodoropoulos
Affiliation:
Division of Otolaryngology, Mount Sinai Hospital Medical Center, Chicago Medical School, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Aijaz Alvi, M.D., Division of Otolaryngology, Mount Sinai Hospital Medical Center, Chicago Medical School, California and 15th Streets, Chicago, Illinois 60608, USA. Fax: 312-257-6662
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Abstract

Macroglossia is a potentially life-threatening problem. The multiple aetiologies responsible for this condition include cysts, tumours, amyloidosis, angioedema, and infections. Although injuries to the oral cavity are common, self-inflicted traumatic macroglossia is not common. We report a case of a comatose patient with limb contractures and severe trismus who developed entrapment of the tongue with progressive macroglossia and near auto-amputation of the tongue. The importance of early recognition and treatment of tongue entrapment in comatose patients is emphasised since this is a potentially reversible condition.

Keywords

MacroglossiaAirway obstructionTrismus

Information

Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 111 , Issue 1 , January 1997 , pp. 75 - 76
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1997

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References

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