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Published on: February 26, 2017
Radiation-associated airway necrosis.
Abdul Hamid Alraiyes1, M Chadi Alraies, Abbas Abbas
1Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Critical Care, and Environmental Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA.
Ochsner Journal
|June 22, 2013
Summary
Delayed tracheal chondronecrosis is a rare complication following radiation therapy. This case highlights a patient who developed distal tracheal chondronecrosis 8 years after treatment for mediastinal adenocarcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Oncology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Chondronecrosis is a known complication of radiation therapy for chest, mediastinal, and head/neck cancers.
- It typically manifests months to years post-treatment, affecting various airway structures.
- Tracheal chondronecrosis is an exceptionally rare occurrence.
Observation:
- This report details a case of delayed chondronecrosis affecting the distal trachea.
- The complication developed eight years after the patient received radiation therapy.
- The initial treatment targeted mediastinal adenocarcinoma using iodine-125 seeds.
Findings:
- The case illustrates a late-onset presentation of tracheal chondronecrosis.
- This highlights the potential for very delayed complications from radiotherapy.
- The distal trachea was the specific site of necrosis.
Implications:
- Management strategies for distal tracheal chondronecrosis depend on the extent of necrosis.
- Treatment options include less invasive methods like balloon dilatation with stenting.
- Surgical interventions such as resection and anastomosis are also considered for severe cases.
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