Isolated Congenital Tracheal Stenosis in a 2-Year-Old Female: A Case Report

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> <italic>Background: </italic>Congenital tracheal stenosis (CTS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening pediatric condition characterized by narrowing of the trachea. This narrowing leads to significant breathing difficulties, often accompanied by recurrent respiratory infections. CTS frequently coexists with other congenital malformations, particularly those affecting the heart and pulmonary artery. However, isolated cases where CTS occurs without accompanying anomalies are exceptionally rare and pose unique diagnostic and treatment challenges. This report describes the case of a 2-year-old female who was initially misdiagnosed and treated for laryngomalacia and asthma. However, her symptoms were not alleviated due tounderlying, undiagnosed isolated CTS. <italic>Case Presentation:</italic> This case involved a 2-year-old female with a history of breathing difficulties, productive cough, and recurrent pneumonia who was treated for laryngomalacia and asthma and who presented with persistent respiratory distress and dysmorphic features. Imaging, including laryngoscopy and chest CT scans, revealed distal tracheal narrowing. The diagnosis was tracheobronchitis secondary to distal congenital tracheal stenosis with no other associated cardiac or respiratory congenital malformations. Surgical intervention entailed resection of the stenotic segment and anastomosis, followed by intensive postoperative care in the ICU and a structured plan for bronchoscopy dilation procedures. Patient recovery requires successful surgical correction and emphasizes the critical role of multidisciplinary care. <italic>Conclusion:</italic> This report underscores the crucial significance of promptly identifying and accurately managing isolated congenital stenosis in children. This highlights the risk of misdiagnosis due to nonspecific respiratory symptoms and showcases the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary treatment approach, resulting in a successful outcome.