Subglottic stenosis secondary to extramedullary hematopoiesis in a patient with postpolycythemia myeloid metaplasia

BACKGROUND: Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) is known to occur in myeloproliferative disorders and hemoglobinopathies and is usually seen in the spleen and liver. METHODS: We report the first case of EMH causing subglottic stenosis in a woman with postpolycythemia myeloid metaplasia (PPMM). A tracheotomy was performed to maintain the airway and local radiotherapy was given. RESULTS: Two months after the radiotherapy was completed laryngoscopy showed an unobstructed airway with no evidence of disease, and the patient was successfully decanulated. Magnetic resonance imaging 8 months after radiotherapy confirmed the absence of local disease. CONCLUSION: Consideration should be given to EMH as a possible cause of airway obstruction in the differential diagnosis of a patient with a history of PPMM.