Medical Case Reports Rare Trifid Epiglottis in Newborn
Researchers document a rare anatomical anomaly in an infant featuring three epiglottic divisions.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Babies
Medical researchers published a case study on May 30, 2026, documenting a newborn with a rare trifid epiglottis. The infant, born at 38 weeks, presented with multiple congenital abnormalities including polydactyly and nasal blockage.
Why it matters
The study authors suspect that the observed defects stem from an underlying genetic syndrome. This research contributes to the sparse global medical literature on this specific anatomical condition.
The infant had a 57 by 43 by 64 millimeter cystic mass and initial oxygen saturation levels of 90%. Doctors drained 50 cc of fluid from the mass and addressed the right-sided choanal atresia, which typically occurs in 1 in 7,000 births.
The players
Mashhad University of Medical Sciences
This Iranian institution serves as a center for medical research and education.
BMC Pediatrics
This peer-reviewed journal focuses on the medical care and health of children.
The details
Physicians at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Iran used bronchoscopy to identify the trifid epiglottis and performed dilation to resolve the nasal blockage. The infant also exhibited a forward-positioned anus and bilateral polydactyly, though no genetic testing was performed.
Timeline
The first reported medical case of a trifid epiglottis occurred in 2012.
A second case was documented in the medical literature in 2025.
This case study was published in BMC Pediatrics on May 30, 2026.
Culture Shift
This report follows the precedent set by the first medical report of trifid epiglottis in 2012. It adds to the growing body of rare congenital documentation that helps refine diagnostic expectations for newborns presenting with multiple physical anomalies.
This case highlights the importance of comprehensive clinical evaluation for newborns presenting with complex congenital anomalies. It serves as a reminder for clinicians and families about the necessity of monitoring developmental milestones when rare structural conditions are identified.
The takeaway
Anatomical anomalies like a trifid epiglottis remain extremely rare occurrences in the global medical population. Parents facing complex birth presentations are encouraged to consult with genetic specialists to explore potential underlying syndromic causes.
Further reading
For more information on infant health and development, visit the Babies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Medical Daily.
