Granulomatosis with polyangiitis: Implications on anesthetic management

Abstract

This is the case of a 44-year-old lady, known to have GPA since 9 years, who presented with symptoms of shortness of breath at rest. On presentation, laryngoscopic examination revealed bilateral mobile cords with significant subglottic stenosis. Computerized tomography of the neck revealed a subglottic stenosis extending over a length of 2.8cm with the airway measuring 9x6mm at the narrowest level. Anesthesiologists must bear in mind the multi-organ system implications of GPA when managing the airway. Delicate anesthetic, pharmacologic, and surgical regimens must be utilized in order to deal with the difficult airway and avoid inadvertent airway risks and unnecessary tracheostomies. © 2017, American University of Beirut. All rights reserved.