Congenital Lobar Emphysema

Abstract

A 29-year-old male had complained of right-sided chest pain for the past 2 years. On evaluation, breath sounds were diminished in the right mammary, axillary, infra-axillary, and infrascapular areas on auscultation, and hyperresonance was noted on percussion. Computed tomography chest plain done showed right lower lobe superior segment emphysema with obliterated segmental tertiary bronchus suggestive of congenital segmental emphysema. Bronchoscopy done showed narrowed right lower lobe lateral segment and Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) analysis done was normal. He became symptomatically better and hence managed conservatively. Congenital lobar emphysema is a rare developmental malformation of the lungs due to deficient development of bronchial cartilages, leading to overinflation of the affected lobe. With a wide range of presentations, it poses a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma. Hence, knowledge of the diagnosis and treatment is essential.