Tracheobronchomalacia

Pediatric tracheobronchomalacia is typically classified as primary disease. Patients commonly present with a “barking” or “brassy” cough, wheezing, and stridor. Other signs and symptoms include cyanosis, breathing difficulties, and frequent respiratory tract infections. Dynamic CT or MRI is the preferred imaging modality. On imaging, the airway is shown to collapse during expiration. Patients are supported medically in most instances. However, those with severe symptoms may be treated surgically.