Flow-volume loop abnormality detecting a previously unrecognized right upper lobe tracheal bronchus. (2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ruzycki, Shannon; Tsai, Willis H.; Davidson, Warren J.
• Is Part Of: Respiratory medicine case reports. Volume 15(2015)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 3
• Publication Date: 2015
• Subjects: Flow-volume loop -- Spirometry -- Tracheal bronchus; Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory Tract Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory System -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases; Respiratory organs -- Diseases; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2015.02.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2213-0071

Abstract

Abstract: Tracheal bronchus is a rare anatomic variant in which a bronchus originates from the trachea. Patients may be asymptomatic or present with a variety of respiratory symptoms. We present a case of a patient who presented with a history of poorly controlled asthma and a persistent abnormality of the flow-volume loop. Bronchoscopy revealed a tracheal bronchus with narrowed right-sided bronchial orifices. An unrecognized tracheal bronchus may result in serious complications during elective or emergent endotracheal intubation. Spirometry testing may reveal abnormalities of the flow-volume loop associated with altered airflow. Relying on spirometric values without assessing the shape of the flow-volume loop may lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate management of lung pathology.