Tracheobronchomalacia
Tracheobronchomalacia (pronunciation: tra-kee-o-bron-ko-ma-lay-shia) is a medical condition characterized by the weakening or collapse of the airway walls in the trachea and bronchi. The term is derived from the Greek words tracheia (windpipe), bronchos (airway), and malakia (softness).
Definition
Tracheobronchomalacia is a condition where the walls of the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (the main passageways to the lungs) are weak or floppy. This can cause the airways to collapse, especially during exhalation, making it difficult to breathe.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of tracheobronchomalacia include shortness of breath, cough, recurrent respiratory infections, and difficulty with physical exertion. In severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening respiratory failure.
Causes
Tracheobronchomalacia can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. Congenital tracheobronchomalacia is often associated with other congenital anomalies of the respiratory system. Acquired tracheobronchomalacia can be caused by chronic inflammation, infection, or injury to the airways.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of tracheobronchomalacia is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) scans or bronchoscopy.
Treatment
Treatment for tracheobronchomalacia depends on the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health. Options may include physiotherapy, respiratory therapy, and in severe cases, surgery to stabilize the airways.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tracheobronchomalacia
- Wikipedia's article - Tracheobronchomalacia
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