Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation in a Two-Month Old Infant: A Case Report

Abstract

Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformations (CPAM) are rare clinical conditions that affect the lungs. They are characterised by the formation of large, multiloculated, cystic structures due to the overgrowth of the terminal bronchioles. This report presents the case of a two-month-old female infant who was referred to the pediatric emergency ward with a diagnosis of aspiration with collapse of the left lung. The patient exhibited progressively worsening respiratory distress accompanied by fever. The infant had a history of breast milk aspiration and had been admitted to the hospital multiple times due to respiratory distress since birth. Even after discharge, she required moist oxygen therapy at home. Upon presentation, a chest X-ray showed left lung collapse, and her respiratory rate was measured at 70 breaths/min. Other vital parameters and laboratory examinations were within normal limits. A high-resolution Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the thorax confirmed the diagnosis of CPAM. The patient was placed on ventilator support and received antibiotic treatment. Once stabilised, she underwent right postero-lateral thoracotomy with right middle and lower lobectomy under general anesthesia. Following surgery, she was discharged in stable condition on the seventh postoperative day, with her respiratory distress resolved. The child continues to receive regular follow-up care, including immunisations and appropriate nutritional support.