Tracheal hemangioma: a case report and literature review

Hemangiomas are the most common vascular tumors in children. Although hemangiomas are common, they are rarely seen in areas like the trachea and larynx.The most common clinical manifestations in tracheal hemangiomas are stridor and respiratory distress. The main diagnostic method is bronchoscopy. Other imaging techniques like computed tomography scans and MRIs are also helpful. Various treatment options are now used for treating the disease, including beta blockers like propranolol, local and systemic steroids, and surgical resection.

An 8-year-old boy with the chief complaint of severe progressive dyspnea and a history of neonatal postbreastfeeding cyanosis was admitted. On physical examination, he had tachypnea, and stridor was heard upon auscultation. There was no history of fever, chest pain, or coughing. He underwent a rigid bronchoscopy followed by a neck computed tomography scan. The results indicated a soft tissue mass with a vascular nature. An MRI of the neck confirmed the diagnosis of tracheal hemangioma. The mass was not resectable during surgery; hence, angioembolization was carried out. Treatment was successful and there was no recurrence on the follow-up.

Based on the findings in this literature review tracheal hemangiomas present with stridor, progressive respiratory distress, dyspnea, hemoptysis, and chronic coughs. Advanced tracheal hemangiomas commonly do not reduce in size by themselves and need treatment. A close follow-up ranging from 3 months to 1 year is recommended.

Although tracheal hemangiomas are rare they should be considered in the differential diagnosis of severe dyspnea and stridor.