Management of plastic bronchitis in a child with mild intermittent asthma

We describe the clinical presentation of a 7 1/2-year-old boy with a history of mild intermittent asthma who presented with left lung collapse and was found to have plastic bronchitis.

We reviewed the patient chart and imaging results and performed a literature review of plastic bronchitis and its management.

Bronchoscopy in our patient demonstrated a large white, friable, cast-like material that obstructed the entire left main stem bronchus and could not be easily suctioned. The cast was removed in a piecemeal fashion by means of serial rigid bronchoscopy over a 6-month period with use of both optical forceps and flexible suction catheters. Microscopic examination of the cast-like material showed a predominance of eosinophils along with neutrophils encased in proteinaceous material.

Plastic bronchitis in children is a rare condition that can mimic foreign body aspiration and can be associated with underlying pulmonary inflammatory disorders or cardiovascular disease. Aggressive bronchoscopic management of the airway obstruction and medical management of the underlying disease process are important for the successful treatment of plastic bronchitis.