We report a rare case of esophageal lung in a neonate who presented with repeated
chest infections and respiratory distress. Chest radiograph revealed increased opacification
of the right lung with reduced lung volume and air bronchograms. Further evaluation
with computed tomography (CT) showed the presence of only left mainstem bronchus at
the tracheal bifurcation. Right mainstem bronchus originated from distal esophagus
and aerated the right lung. Nasogastric tube was inserted into the stomach with injection
of small amount of dilute barium through it, which established the communication of
right mainstem bronchus with esophagus. Advanced CT scan imaging by virtual bronchoscopy
and volume rendering further delineated the anatomical abnormality precisely prior
to surgery. Surgical findings confirmed the diagnosis.
Keywords
Bronchopulmonary foregut malformation - esophageal lung - virtual bronchoscopy - volume
rendering
