Multiple symmetric lipomatosis with secondary laryngeal obstruction: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Multiple symmetric lipomatosis (MSL) is an uncommon medical condition characterized by symmetric fat accumulation mainly in the neck and other upper body regions. The involvement of the larynx is rare according to the literature, and we present a case of MSL with larynx involvement treated with a surgical approach. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 55-year-old male was admitted to our hospital due to progressively aggravated breathing difficulty, and tracheotomy was performed before transfer. When he tried to block the cannula, the breathing difficulty returned. The patient's neck had been thickening for the past 2 years. DIAGNOSIS: Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of MSL. INTERVENTIONS: The patient underwent lumpectomy and neck exploration. OUTCOMES: The lipoma was removed, the patient was free of any dyspnea symptoms and recovered well, and the tracheal cannula was removed at a local hospital. CONCLUSION: MSL can infiltrate the larynx and grow into the preepiglottic space and paraglottic spaces, resulting in breathing difficulties. Lipomas present in the spaces described above must be removed at the same time; otherwise, symptoms of dyspnea cannot be alleviated.