Management of benign central airway obstruction

Abstract

There are a variety of etiologies of benign central airway obstruction, including traumatic, inflammatory, infectious, and systemic disorders. Presentation with non-specific respiratory symptoms often leads to delayed identification and management. Therapeutic strategies include bronchoscopic and surgical interventions; however, recurrence of airway obstruction leads to significant morbidity and mortality. We present a review of the etiology, diagnosis and management of several causes of benign airway obstruction.