1
Return

Case Series: clinical challenges in pediatric plastic bronchitis

delete2026-04-01
delete0
PRE
AI
A
Albalawi, Nouf Nasser *
A
Alafandi, Dina
A
Alessa, Ahmad
A
Alqahtani, Ali
A
Alshehri, Yousef
A
Almoffarreh, Haitham
A
Alkathiri, Ziyad
DOI:10.3389/fped.2026.1715606delete
deleteOriginal
deleteOriginal request for help
deleteShare
deleteSave
Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
Background Plastic bronchitis, also known as bronchial cast syndrome, is a rare but serious complication predominantly seen in children with congenital heart disease, particularly following Fontan-type surgeries. This disorder is characterized by the development of cohesive bronchial casts that may result in life-threatening obstruction of the airways.Methods We present a case series of three pediatric patients with complex congenital heart disease who developed plastic bronchitis after Fontan-style palliative surgery. We detail the clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, management, and outcomes of these patients.Results All three patients presented with acute respiratory symptoms and expectoration of bronchial casts. Each patient had previously undergone multiple prior cardiac surgeries, culminating in a Fontan-type procedure. Management of such patients focuses on symptomatic relief, supportive care, and, in some cases, bronchoscopy cast removal. Variable clinical courses and outcomes highlight the challenges in the diagnosis and management of this condition.Conclusion Plastic bronchitis in children with congenital heart disease necessitates a high clinical suspicion and a multidisciplinary approach for prompt intervention. Further research is required to improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Keywords:
bronchial cast
congenital heart disease
Fontan procedure
pediatric
plastic bronchitis

Journal

Frontiers in Pediatrics cover
Frontiers in Pediatrics
IF:
2
Papers:
1.0K
Citations:
2.0W

Organization

K
king saud bin abdulaziz university for health sciences
Scholars:
1.5K
Papers: 525
Citations: 0
K
king abdulaziz medical city - riyadh
Scholars:
714
Papers: 433
Citations: 0
M
ministry of national guard - health affairs
Scholars:
1.3K
Papers: 764
Citations: 0
Cited Papers

Cited Papers

Citing Papers

Citing Papers