BRONCHIOGENIC MEDIASTINAL CYSTS IN INFANTS: CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

A case of bronchiogenic mediastinal cyst in an infant is presented, which was treated successfully surgically even though the cyst itself was not roentgenologically demonstrable preoperatively. The literature is reviewed. When the lesion has been demonstrable on x-ray, successful surgical intervention has been the rule. When the lesion has not been demonstrable on x-ray, procrastination and death have often occurred. Clinically this pathology will be manifested by periodic and usually progressive attacks of dyspnea, wheezing, stridor, and cyanosis—all aggravated by crying and feeding and ameliorated by oxygen therapy. Roentgenologic and endoscopic studies are mandatory, but even if negative, when these clinical findings are present, exploratory thoracotomy should be carried out.