A rare cause of wheezing in an infant: Esophageal duplication cyst

Kapil Kapoor1, Mamta Jajoo1, Swati Dublish1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Maulana Azad Medical College and Associated Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, New Delhi, India.

Insights

Esophageal duplication cysts (EDCs) are rare congenital anomalies. This case highlights EDC as an unusual cause of persistent infant wheezing, emphasizing its consideration in differential diagnoses.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Congenital Anomalies

Background:

  • Esophageal duplication cysts (EDCs) are rare congenital anomalies, classified under foregut duplication cysts.
  • EDCs predominantly affect pediatric populations and can present with diverse clinical manifestations.

Observation:

  • A 2-month-old infant presented with persistent wheezing unresponsive to standard treatments.
  • Diagnostic bronchoscopy raised suspicion for an EDC.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging provided provisional confirmation of the esophageal cyst.

Findings:

  • Surgical excision of the esophageal duplication cyst was successfully performed.
  • Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of EDC.

Implications:

  • Esophageal duplication cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of persistent, unexplained wheezing in infants.
  • Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing symptomatic EDCs in neonates and infants.

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