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Pulmonary hypertension and congenital bronchial atresia: A time factor association
Prince A Alebna1, David H Kim2, Raghav Chaudhary1
1Englewood Health, Englewood, NJ, United States.
Insights
Congenital bronchial atresia, a rare condition, can lead to severe pulmonary hypertension in adults. This case highlights the need for potentially less conservative management in younger patients to prevent long-term complications.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Genetics
Background:
- Congenital bronchial atresia (CBA) is a rare congenital anomaly of the airway.
- It is typically asymptomatic in adults, with complications like recurrent infections and pneumothorax being common.
- Severe pulmonary hypertension is an unusual manifestation of CBA.
Abstract:
Congenital bronchial atresia is rarely symptomatic in adults. Recurrent lung infection and pneumothorax are the feared complications of this otherwise benign condition. The objective of this article is to present a case of congenital bronchial atresia manifesting as pulmonary hypertension in a 66 year-old patient. While doing so, we highlight the relevant knowledge accrued in medical literature with regards this rare condition. Finally, with the revelation that congenital bronchial atresia may cause severe pulmonary hypertension later in life, perhaps a less conservative approach to management may be warranted in younger adults and children with this condition.
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