Isolated Epiglottic Manifestations of HIV Infection: Two Cases Reports

Abstract

Diagnosis of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remains challenging due to non-specific clinical presentations and mostly flu-like symptoms, e.g., fever, headache, sore throat, and general weakness. Oral lesions, such as oral candidiasis and Kaposi sarcoma, are also frequently associated with HIV infection, whereas laryngeal manifestations are rare. We report two cases of newly diagnosed HIV patients with clinical presentations of sore throat, and endoscopy revealed an epiglottic ulcerative tumor-like lesion. A laryngomicrosurgical biopsy of the lesions was performed for persistent symptoms and suspicion of malignancy. The result revealed acute and chronic inflammation without a conclusive pathology diagnosis. Further laboratory analysis was arranged in consideration of autoimmune diseases, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), and HIV infection due to their persistent and atypical symptoms. The results were positive for HIV infection. These patients were treated successfully with antiviral treatment and the laryngeal symptoms improved within weeks. In patients with idiopathic and persistent epiglottitis or an epiglottic ulcer after medical treatment, HIV infection needs to be considered as a potential etiology in order to institute proper treatment.