A case of endobronchial polyp mimicking congenital lobar emphysema in an infant.

BACKGROUND: Congenital lobar emphysema, also called infantile lobar emphysema, is a respiratory disease that occurs in infants when air enters the lungs and cannot leave easily. It results from cartilage deficiency and bronchomalacia causing distal air trapping and respiratory distress. In this study, we present a case of endobronchial polyp mimicking congenital lobar emphysema.

CASE PRESENTATION: An 18-month old infant was admitted to the hospital due to sudden respiratory distress. Chest x- ray showed left hemithorax lucency, mediastinal shift to the right side, left hemidiaphragm flattening, and left oblique fissure bulging to the superior. A broncoscopy showed polyp in the left lower bronchus and the biopsy of the lesion confirmed to be the polyp.

CONCLUSION: The findings of this case emphasize the value of bronchoscopy prior to lobectomy in cases of congenital lobar emphysema.