A Deceptive Tracheal Mass Mimicking Asthma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Primary tracheal tumors are rare malignancies, with most cases representing local invasion from lung, thyroid, or esophageal cancers.
• Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is the second most common primary tracheal tumor, accounting for 10-15% of cases and generally having a better prognosis than squamous cell carcinoma.

Observation:

• A case report details a 35-year-old female patient initially misdiagnosed and treated for asthma.
• Diagnosis was confirmed through cryo biopsy and subsequent histopathological examination, revealing a primary tracheal tumor.

Findings:

• The case highlights potential diagnostic challenges in primary tracheal tumors, leading to delayed or incorrect treatment.
• Accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management of these rare conditions.

Implications:

• Surgical excision is the preferred treatment for primary tracheal tumors.
• Active follow-up surveillance is essential to monitor for recurrence after treatment.