VACTERL association complicated with multiple airway abnormalities: A case report

INTRODUCTION: VACTERL association is an acronym that includes vertebral anomalies (V), anal atresia (A), cardiac defects (C), tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) or esophageal atresia (EA), renal anomalies (R), and limb defects (L). Airway anomalies have rarely been reported with VACTERL association. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 10-month-old boy who had been diagnosed with anal atresia and received surgical corrections soon after birth consulted our institution by complaining repeated cough and fever. DIAGNOSIS: Diagnosis of VACTERL association was finally made. Bronchoscopy and chest CT with computed tomography angiography confirmed multiple airway abnormalities including bridging bronchus, airway malacia, and complete tracheal rings. INTERVENTIONS: Supplemental oxygen was provided and antibiotics was initiated. OUTCOMES: The patient resolved gradually and was discharged 10 days later. The follow-up showed the patient has remained well just with mild psychomotor retardation. CONCLUSION: Multiple airway anomalies may be seen in VACTERL association. It is worthwhile to make special note for evaluating the tracheobronchial pulmonary system by chest CT and bronchoscopy, especially patients presenting with breathing anomalies.