Paediatric plastic bronchitis in an atopic child; A case report from East Africa

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Cardiology
• Rare Diseases

Background:

• Plastic bronchitis (PB) is a rare condition in children, characterized by airway casts.
• It is often associated with cardiac conditions and allergies, potentially due to lymphatic drainage issues.
• Diffuse lymphatic obstruction can be fatal if left untreated.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old female presented with symptoms mimicking a lower respiratory tract infection.
• Imaging revealed opacification of the left hemithorax.
• Bronchoscopy confirmed the presence of bronchial casts.

Findings:

• This case represents a rare instance of plastic bronchitis in a pediatric patient with sickle cell disease.
• The clinical presentation included acute respiratory symptoms and significant bronchial cast formation.
• The patient's condition required bronchoscopic intervention.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of conditions associated with plastic bronchitis.
• It underscores the importance of considering plastic bronchitis in pediatric patients with respiratory symptoms and cardiac comorbidities, including sickle cell disease.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing this potentially life-threatening condition.