Spontaneous rupture of trachea treated conservatively: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Spontaneous rupture of the trachea is a rare, life-threatening condition. Spontaneous rupture associated with corticosteroid use has been rarely reported in the literature. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a 17-year-old male, a known case of nephrotic syndrome managed by corticosteroid treatment, who presented with diffuse neck and chest swelling after forceful coughing resulting in a spontaneous rupture of the trachea. The diagnosis was established using radiological imaging. The patient was managed conservatively with significant improvement and was discharged shortly. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may lead to spontaneous rupture of the trachea due to tracheal wall weakness. Radiological imaging followed by bronchoscopy can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Management can either be conservative or surgical, depending on the case. CONCLUSION: Conservative treatment by pain relief, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics should be considered an alternative to surgery in selected patients.