Tracheobronchomalacia - 12/09/17

Doi : 10.1016/j.disamonth.2017.04.003

Abhishek Biswas, MD ^⁎ , Michael A. Jantz, MD, P.S. Sriram, MD, Hiren J. Mehta, MD
Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States

^⁎Correspondence to: Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Florida, Room M452, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States.

Abstract

The term tracheobronchomalacia refers to excessively compliant and collapsible central airways leading to symptoms. Although seen as a coexisting condition with various other pulmonary condition, it may cause symptoms by itself. The condition is often misdiagnosed as asthma, bronchitis or just chronic cough due to a lack of specific pathognomonic history and clinical findings. The investigation revolves around different modes of imaging, lung function testing and usually confirmed by flexible bronchoscopy. The treatment widely varies based on the cause, with most cases treated conservatively with non-invasive ventilation. Some may require surgery or stent placement. In this article, we aim to discuss the pathophysiology behind this condition and recognize the common symptoms and causes of tracheobronchomalacia. The article will highlight the diagnostic steps as well as therapeutic interventions based on the specific cause.

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Keywords : Tracheobronchomalacia, Excessive dynamic airway collapse, Central airway obstruction, Endobronchial ultrasound, Tracheobronchial stent

Plan

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We declare that the work described has not been published previously, that it is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, that its publication is approved by all authors and tacitly or explicitly by the responsible authorities where the work was carried out, and that, if accepted, it will not be published elsewhere including electronically in the same form, in English or in any other language, without the written consent of the copyright-holder.