A Case of Recurrent Isolated Uvula Oedema Secondary to Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

A 34-year-old male presented as an emergency with sudden onset globus, stertor and choking whilst asleep. He had similar previous episodes that self-resolved. The patient's observations were all within normal range. On examination, he had a grossly enlarged, non-erythematous uvula and there were no signs of respiratory distress or stridor. He was managed with intravenous dexamethasone and an attempt at needle aspiration of the uvula was made but there was no clinical improvement in the patient's condition. Despite no improvement with therapy, he was monitored overnight for any signs of airway compromise and discharged the following morning. His symptoms completely resolved on follow-up in the otolaryngology clinic a week later. He was diagnosed with Quincke’s oedema caused by his obesity and background of obstructive sleep apnoea. We discuss the various aetiologies, assessment, and management of Quincke’s oedema.