Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026
14:39
Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
Plastic bronchitis in an adult with asthma
Eun Jin Kim1, Jung Eun Park, Dong Hoon Kim
1Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Gumi Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Gumi, Korea.
Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
|November 21, 2012
Summary
This study presents a rare case of adult plastic bronchitis, a condition causing airway obstruction due to cast formation. The adult patient presented with eosinophilic casts, differing from previously reported pediatric cases in Korea.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Rare Diseases
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Plastic bronchitis is a rare condition causing severe airway obstruction.
- It is characterized by the formation of gelatinous or rigid casts within the airways.
- Previous reports in Korea have primarily focused on pediatric cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of adult plastic bronchitis.
- To highlight the presence of eosinophilic casts in an adult patient.
- To differentiate this case from previously documented pediatric instances.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Diagnostic evaluation including imaging and bronchoscopy.
- Analysis of cast composition.
Main Results:
- Diagnosis of plastic bronchitis in an adult patient.
- Identification of eosinophilic material within the airway casts.
- Absence of atopic or cardiac disease history in the patient.
Conclusions:
- Plastic bronchitis can occur in adults, presenting with eosinophilic casts.
- This case expands the understanding of plastic bronchitis demographics and potential etiologies.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms in adult-onset cases.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
01:24Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Classification of Asthma
01:13Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations
Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...