Tracheobronchopathia Osteochondroplastica: Owing to a Case

Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TBO) is a rare benign disease characterized by the presence of the submucosal nodules projecting into the tracheobronchial tree. This disease is usually asymptomatic and has a benign course. A 61-year old man was admitted with cough and hemoptysis for further evaluation. A chest computed tomography demonstrated emphysema and subpleural bullea in both upper lobes, and consalidation in the left lower lobe. A fiberoptic bronchoscopy revealed multiple white, irregular nodules on the anterior and lateral walls of the trachea extending to the level of the carina. The patient was discharged with medical therapy. TBO should be considered in the differential diagnosis as an unusual cause of persistent cough, hemoptysis, persistent atelectasis and recurrent segmental or lobar infection. There is no specific therapy for this entity. The prognosis of TBO is generally good and depends on the extent and the location of the lesions.