Lung function in patients with tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica

Abstract

We have analysed the ventilatory function of seven patients with tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica. One patient showed reversible airflow obstruction meeting the criteria of bronchial asthma. Another two patients yielded reduced percentage forced expiratory volume (FEV%) and features of small airways obstruction. The patients' previous spirometric measurements also made the rough estimation of longitudinal changes in lung function possible during a follow-up period of 1-8 yrs (mean 4.2 yrs). Although most patients had suffered severe chest infections, no deterioration in spirometric parameters was found during the follow-up. These findings suggest that tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica usually has a benign course.