Expiratory Central Airway Collapse

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Source: NEJM

Original: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMicm2503296?af=R&rss=currentIssue...

Published: 2026-02-28T12:30:00Z

Expiratory central airway collapse (ECAC) includes two subtypes: excessive dynamic airway collapse and tracheobronchomalacia.[1] It is manifested by shortness of breath, chronic cough, difficulty in expectorating mucus and repeated respiratory tract infections.[1] The diagnosis is established by dynamic flexible bronchoscopy and computed tomography.[1] Drug treatment focuses on respiratory symptoms and associated diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux, and paroxysmal vocal cord movements.[1] Selected patients may undergo trial stenting to assess eligibility for tracheobronchoplasty (TBP).[1] A positive response to stenting predicts a successful TBP outcome that improves respiratory symptoms and quality of life.[1] Alternative options include long-term stenting and intermittent positive airway pressure therapy.[1]