What is Pulmonary Sequestration?
Pulmonary sequestration is a rare congenital lung anomaly characterized by a portion of lung tissue that is not connected to the normal bronchial tree and has an abnormal blood supply, typically arising from the systemic circulation. This sequestered lung tissue does not participate in normal gas exchange and can lead to various complications.
Types of Pulmonary Sequestration
There are two main types of pulmonary sequestration:
1.
Intralobar Sequestration (ILS): This type is located within the normal lung lobe and shares the pleural covering with the rest of the lung.
2.
Extralobar Sequestration (ELS): This type is located outside the normal lung lobes and has its own separate pleural covering.
How is Pulmonary Sequestration Diagnosed?
Pulmonary sequestration can be diagnosed prenatally using
ultrasound and confirmed with
fetal MRI. Postnatally, it can be identified using imaging techniques like chest X-ray, CT scan, and MRI. Doppler ultrasound is particularly useful for identifying the aberrant blood supply.
Symptoms and Complications
Symptoms of pulmonary sequestration can vary but often include:
- Respiratory distress
- Recurrent lung infections
- Chronic cough
- Failure to thrive in severe cases Complications can include infection, hemorrhage, and, in rare instances, malignancy.
Treatment Options
The primary treatment for pulmonary sequestration is surgical resection. The timing and approach depend on the type and severity of symptoms. In asymptomatic cases, some clinicians may choose to monitor the condition with regular follow-ups.
Prognosis
The prognosis for infants diagnosed with pulmonary sequestration is generally good, especially if the condition is identified early and managed appropriately. Surgical intervention often results in a complete resolution of symptoms.
Conclusion
Pulmonary sequestration is a rare but significant neonatal disorder that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent complications. Advances in prenatal imaging have improved early detection, allowing for better outcomes with timely intervention.
