Size matters: an unusual case report

Abstract

Mounier-Kuhn syndrome is a rare clinical entity characterized by dilation of the tracheobronchial tree leading to recurrent lower respiratory tract infections. The clinical spectrum ranges from asymptomatic patients to those with severe respiratory failure. The disease is diagnosed by the use of computerized tomography scans, bronchoscopy, and pulmonary function tests of the affected patients. There is no specific medical or surgical therapy for the entity, and care is largely supportive, targeted towards prevention of infections in such patients. We describe the case of a 27-year-old male who presented to us with complaints of paroxysmal episodes of cough with expectoration on and off since childhood. Computerized tomography scans revealed dilation of the trachea (diameter 33.7 mm) with bronchiectatic changes noted in the right lower lung lobe. Virtual bronchoscopy revealed tracheal scalloping and diverticulae which further substantiated the diagnosis of Mounier-Kuhn syndrome. Pulmonary function test result was normal.