Tracheomalacia — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateRespiratoryTracheomalaciaRACP Paediatrics

A 2-year-old has recurrent wheeze and a chronic barking cough that worsens with crying and exertion. Flexible bronchoscopy shows collapse of the trachea during expiration. What is the diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Tracheomalacia

Tracheomalacia involves dynamic collapse of the trachea during expiration due to softening of tracheal cartilage. It causes expiratory wheeze, barking cough, and respiratory distress that worsens with agitation. Most cases of primary tracheomalacia improve by 2-3 years of age.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Tracheomalacia