Case series: two cases of life threatening dynamic airway obstruction from thyroid mass

Overview

Abstract

We present 2 cases of dynamic airway obstruction with respiratory failure leading to cardiac arrest. Both have significant aetiology of cystic thyroid mass with sudden haemorrhagic changes leading to airway obstruction. We discuss the plausible pathophysiology leading to cardiopulmonary compromise where tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and excessive dynamic airway collapse (EDAC) play a significant role. We note that this is under recognised and can be present as a life-threatening event. Recognition of these pathophysiology process facilitate surgical management of thyroid obstructive airway disease.

Yeeshay Lee, Haozheng Wong, Sing Chee Tan, Rana Muhammad Habibullah, Yoke Yeow Yap, Faheem Khan, Chee Keat Tan

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April 2025, Volume 28 Number 2

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