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Progressive Dyspnea in a Woman With Tracheal Stenosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Eugene Shostak1, Rutvi Amin2, Genna Braverman3
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY.
An elderly woman with rheumatoid arthritis presented with respiratory symptoms. Her history of tracheostomy and persistent cough required hospitalization for further evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Critical Care
Background:
- An 82-year-old woman with a history of vocal cord paralysis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was admitted.
- The patient had a remote tracheostomy and long-standing erosive, seropositive RA managed with methotrexate.
Observation:
- She presented with a month of dyspnea, chest tightness, and productive cough with blood-tinged sputum.
- Outpatient treatment with multiple antibiotic courses was unsuccessful.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms suggested a potential airway compromise or pulmonary issue.
- Further investigation was warranted due to the persistent and severe nature of her respiratory complaints.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering complex underlying conditions in patients with RA and respiratory symptoms.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for patients with pre-existing airway issues and new pulmonary complaints.
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Trachea
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of...

