A correlation between the shape of the epiglottis and obstructive sleep apnea

The incidence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is increasing with the rise in the prevalence of obesity in the population. Upon performing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) on more than 50 patients with BMI ranging from 21 to 63, we noticed an increase in the concavity of the posterior surface of the epiglottis in correlation with the increase in BMI. Since OSA is caused by collapse of the airways, this same pressure seems to be responsible for the deformity of the epiglottis, which normally has a minimally concave posterior surface. Therefore the shape of the epiglottis reflects the degree of airway collapse and thus the severity of OSA. We recommend that patients with increased concavity of the posterior epiglottal surface seen endoscopically should be tested for OSA.