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Respiratory infections and vascular rings
W M van Aalderen1, M O Hoekstra, J Hess
1Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Acta Paediatrica Scandinavica
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Vascular rings can cause recurrent respiratory infections in older children, often without early symptoms. Early diagnosis via chest X-ray can prevent lung damage and ensure recovery after surgery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Thoracic Surgery
- Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Vascular rings are rare congenital anomalies of the aortic arch.
- Recurrent respiratory infections are typically not associated with vascular rings in older children.
Observation:
- Six cases of older children with recurrent respiratory infections due to vascular rings are presented.
- These children lacked early infancy symptoms like stridor or swallowing difficulties.
- Respiratory issues manifested later in life as the primary symptom of the vascular ring.
Findings:
- Delayed diagnosis occurred in two patients due to unfamiliarity with this association.
- One child experienced persistent lung damage as a consequence of delayed treatment.
- Five out of six children showed significant recovery after surgical correction of the vascular ring.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering vascular rings in the differential diagnosis of recurrent respiratory infections in older children.
- Suggests that early identification of tracheal indentation on chest radiographs can aid in timely diagnosis.
- Emphasizes the potential for good outcomes with surgical intervention, preventing long-term morbidity.