Fibroepithelial polyp arising from the epiglottis

Objectives: Fibroepithelial polyp, a common type of tumor in the skin, vulva, and the neck of uterus, is very rare in the respiratory tract. We describe clinical, radiologic, and histological features of a fibroepithelial polyp as a rare cause of epiglottis mass in a child. Study Design: Case review Methods: Chart of an 11-year-old female referred to a tertiary care pediatric hospital for assessment of epiglottic mass was reviewed. Data included relevant history and physical examination, diagnostic work up, and management. Results: The child presented with a two month history of intermittent sore throat and discomfort with swallowing. The sore throat progressed without a history of fever, hoarseness, breathing difficulty, voice change, weight loss, night sweats, hemoptysis, and change in appetite. Physical examination revealed a mass located on the lingual surface of the epiglottis. MR imaging documented a non-lipomatous mass with no hemangioma or vascular malformation characteristics. There was no extension to the other laryngeal structures. The mass was removed using CO₂ laser and histologic evaluation showed subepithelial fibroconnective tissue containing scattered blood vessels, occasional nerves, and mild mononuclear inflammation consistent with fibroepithelial polyp. Postoperatively, the surgical site was healed with no evidence of recurrent lesion. Conclusions: Fibroepithelial polyp, although uncommon, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of epiglottic mass in children.