Bronchomalacia

A condition characterized by weakness of the bronchial walls

Bronchomalacia

Diagram of the bronchial tree

Bronchomalacia is a medical condition characterized by the weakening of the walls of the bronchi, the large air passages that lead from the trachea (windpipe) to the lungs. This condition can lead to airway collapse, especially during expiration, resulting in breathing difficulties.

Pathophysiology

Bronchomalacia occurs when the structural integrity of the bronchial walls is compromised. Normally, the bronchi are supported by cartilage, which helps maintain their shape and patency. In bronchomalacia, this cartilage is weakened or deficient, leading to a collapse of the airway during exhalation. This can cause airway obstruction and result in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and dyspnea (shortness of breath).

Causes

Bronchomalacia can be classified as either congenital or acquired:

• Congenital bronchomalacia is present at birth and may be associated with other congenital anomalies such as tracheomalacia or laryngomalacia.
• Acquired bronchomalacia can develop later in life due to factors such as chronic inflammation, prolonged mechanical ventilation, or external compression by tumors or enlarged lymph nodes.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bronchomalacia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Recurrent respiratory infections
• Difficulty breathing, especially during physical exertion

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of bronchomalacia is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Bronchoscopy is often used to directly visualize the airways and assess the degree of collapse. Computed tomography (CT) scans can also provide detailed images of the bronchial structure.

Treatment

Treatment for bronchomalacia depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Options may include:

• Conservative management with bronchodilators and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and improve airway patency.
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy to help keep the airways open during breathing.
• Surgical intervention in severe cases, such as tracheobronchoplasty, to reinforce the bronchial walls.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with bronchomalacia varies. Mild cases may improve with conservative treatment, while severe cases may require ongoing management and intervention. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.

Related pages

• Tracheomalacia
• Laryngomalacia
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Asthma