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Tracheopathia osteoplastica misdiagnosed as asthma
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky 40536, USA. don.hayes@uky.edu
Summary
Tracheopathia osteoplastica (TPO) is a rare airway disorder. This case highlights TPO misdiagnosed as asthma, emphasizing the importance of considering TPO in refractory chronic cough.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Rare Diseases
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Tracheopathia osteoplastica (TPO) is a rare condition causing bony or cartilaginous nodules in the airway.
- Symptoms like chronic cough and dyspnea can mimic asthma, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Observation:
- A case report of an adult female with an 8-year history of persistent cough, initially diagnosed as refractory asthma.
- Chest CT revealed tracheal soft tissue masses, and bronchoscopy confirmed TPO in the upper trachea.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with TPO after extensive misdiagnosis.
- Treatment with airway clearance and nasal corticosteroids led to complete cough resolution.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for a broader differential diagnosis in patients with refractory chronic cough.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of TPO can prevent prolonged, ineffective asthma treatments and improve patient outcomes.
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