A rare case of esophageal lung in a neonate

Abstract

We report a rare case of esophageal lung in a neonate who presented with repeated chest infections and respiratory distress. Chest radiograph revealed increased opacification of the right lung with reduced lung volume and air bronchograms. Further evaluation with computed tomography (CT) showed the presence of only left mainstem bronchus at the tracheal bifurcation. Right mainstem bronchus originated from distal esophagus and aerated the right lung. Nasogastric tube was inserted into the stomach with injection of small amount of dilute barium through it, which established the communication of right mainstem bronchus with esophagus. Advanced CT scan imaging by virtual bronchoscopy and volume rendering further delineated the anatomical abnormality precisely prior to surgery. Surgical findings confirmed the diagnosis.

Esophageal lung misdiagnosed as tracheoesophageal fistula: A case report

“…The clinical importance of these lesions is in those patients requiring hospitalization as they are more susceptible to recurrent pulmonary infections and respiratory failure [6] . Suspicion is usually made within the first year of life when the infant shows recurrent pulmonary infections, respiratory failure, and failure to thrive [7] .…”

Esophageal lung

“…In pulmonary sequestration, there is only lobar involvement with systemic arterial supply. 5 Treatment is surgical and includes the resection of the hypoplastic lung with the repair of the esophageal communication.…”

“…In agenesis, both the lung parenchyma and pulmonary artery are absent. In pulmonary sequestration, there is only lobar involvement with systemic arterial supply 5 …”