Ectopic bronchus: an insufficiently recognized malformation causing respiratory morbidity in VATER association

An 11-month-old boy presented with recurrent wheezing and atelectasis in the right upper lobe of the lung. Bronchoscopy and bronchography confirmed an ectopic bronchus arising from the right main bronchus. The diagnosis of VATER association was made on the basis of multiple vertebral and rib anomalies, imperforate anus with a perineal fistula, unilateral hydronephrosis, atrial septal defect, and a preauricular tag, he did not have tracheo-esophageal fistula. We emphasize the importance of recognizing tracheobronchial anomalies in VATER association.