Published in:
Open Access 30-11-2024 | Bronchial Asthma | Case report
Tracheal stenosis misdiagnosed as asthma: a case report
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2024
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Introduction
Tracheal stenosis is a known complication following intubation. However, owing to its delayed presentation and symptoms of progressive wheezing and respiratory difficulty, it is often misdiagnosed as asthma.
Case presentation
We present the case of a 10-year-old Asian boy who presented with cough, wheezing, and dyspnea. He was misdiagnosed with severe, uncontrolled asthma and respiratory failure, remaining unresponsive to initial asthma management. During his current admission, he had difficult intubation, necessitating an emergency tracheostomy. Further subsequent examination revealed grade III tracheal stenosis.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of considering tracheal stenosis as a differential diagnosis in children presenting with dyspnea, cough, and wheezing, particularly if there is a history of prior intubation. The airway should be secured immediately in a controlled environment by an otolaryngologist or anesthetist.
