666 Rugby Tackle: A Cause of Delayed Onset Laryngeal Oedema

Abstract Case Presentation A 14-year-old boy presented to the emergency department with facial and neck swelling, hoarseness dysphagia. The symptom onset was 24 hours after a rugby tackle shoulder. Examination found significant bilateral lower swelling. Blood results observations were normal. Fibreoptic nasendoscopy (FNE) revealed diffuse oedema of arytenoids soft tissue around larynx. Computed Tomography (CT) contrast demonstrated inflammatory changes in submental submandibular regions extending suprasternal notch, aetiology for this indeterminate. He responded medical treatment regular intravenous dexamethasone, antibiotics as required, adrenaline nebulisers. discharged two days able return school following week. Discussion Laryngeal is an ear, nose throat which can result airway obstruction. It commonly caused by bacterial infection. However, rarely other precipitants including blunt trauma are reported. This first case reported literature delayed laryngeal from common sporting injury. important recognise consider cause patients oedema, especially when no obvious underlying present. highlights importance thorough history taking detect trauma. After ensuring secure airway, systemic steroids effective against trauma-induced prophylactic should be considered avoid oropharyngeal contamination. FNE, CT minimum 24-hour observation period specialist involvement essential management.