Bronchial atresia and subglottic stenosis

Case contributed by Matthew Lukies
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Recurrent dilatation procedures for chronic subglottic tracheal stenosis.

Patient Data

Age: 25 years
Gender: Female

Chest

x-ray
  • subglottic tracheal stenosis
  • left upper zone hyperlucency and decreased bronchovascular markings
  • subglottic tracheal stenosis
  • hyperlucent left upper lobe with decreased bronchovascular markings. The lingular segment is spared.
  • air trapping in the left upper lobe demonstrated by the relatively increased hyperlucency in the expiratory phase compared to the inspiratory phase
  • mucous in the proximal left upper lobe bronchus, which is not visible more superiorly

The appearance is consistent with left upper lobe bronchial atresia.

Case Discussion

This case demonstrates typical findings of left upper lobe bronchial atresia, as well as subglottic tracheal stenosis.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.