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Abstract Plastic bronchitis is a relatively uncommon illness that has been reported in all age groups. This case report describes a specific manifestation of plastic bronchitis in two pediatric brothers influenced by both smoke inhalation and influenza A virus infection. The therapeutic approach mainly involved symptomatic supportive care, antiviral therapy, repeated bronchoscopic alveolar lavage, and bronchial cast removal. Eventually, both patients went into remission. Bronchoscopy proved to be helpful in diagnosing and treating these cases.

Abstract Background Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is a common respiratory infection among children. However, the occurrence of thromboembolism with plastic bronchitis in association with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is extremely rare. This case series presents five cases of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia who developed thromboembolism and plastic bronchitis. The clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and management strategies are discussed. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on medical records from a pediatric hospital. Patient demographics, clinical features, laboratory findings, imaging results, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected. Results The patients in our case series presented with varying degrees of respiratory distress, cough, and fever. Imaging studies revealed evidence of thromboembolism based on pulmonary artery occlusion. Bronchial casts were observed by bronchoscopy. Laboratory tests demonstrated elevated D-dimer levels and fibrinogen degradation products. All patients received a combination of low molecular weight heparin anticoagulation and supportive care. Conclusion Thromboembolism with plastic bronchitis associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is a rare but potentially serious complication in children. Prompt recognition and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes. This case series highlights the diverse clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies for this unique clinical entity. Further research is needed to better understand the pathogenesis and optimal management of this condition.

Plastic bronchitis is a relatively uncommon illness that has been reported in all age groups. This case report describes a specific manifestation of plastic bronchitis in two pediatric brothers influenced by both smoke inhalation and influenza A virus infection. The therapeutic approach mainly involved symptomatic supportive care, antiviral therapy, repeated bronchoscopic alveolar lavage, and bronchial cast removal. Eventually, both patients went into remission. Bronchoscopy proved to be helpful in diagnosing and treating these cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study investigated clinical and laboratory characteristics of human bocavirus type 1 (HBoV1)‐plastic bronchiolitis (PB), Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP)‐associated plastic bronchitis (PB) and MP‐NPB in children, highlighting inflammation, coagulation, and bronchoscopic needs. Methods: Data on preschool children with PB during HBoV1 or MP infection were collected, comparing MP‐PB to severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. Result: Compared with the MP‐PB group, the HBoV1‐PB group, with younger children, had significantly milder clinical symptoms but higher WBC counts (p =.028). The MP‐PB group exhibited notably elevated Fibrinogen (p =.045) and d‐dimer levels (p <.001). When contrasting the MP‐PB with the MP‐NPB group, children in MP‐PB group still had higher levels of d‐dimer and increased inflammatory indicators such as C‐reactive protein, procalcitonin, lactate dehydrogenase, and interleukin‐6, which were significantly elevated compared with the MP‐NPB group. MP‐PB showed a higher prevalence of plastic bronchial casts in lower lobes (p =.016) and a dominance of neutrophils in BALF cytology. Additionally, children in the MP‐PB group tended to undergo a greater number of bronchoscopies. Conclusion: This study identifies key differences in plastic bronchitis in children due to HBoV1 and MP, highlighting HBoV1's milder inflammation in younger kids and MP's link to severe inflammatory and coagulation responses, guiding clinical diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate the application of flexible bronchoscopy for the removal of molds in children with plastic bronchitis (PB) and to summarize key nursing considerations. Methods A retrospective analysis was con- ducted on PB patients treated at the Respiratory Department, Guangzhou Medical University affiliated Women and Children's Medical Center from January 2019 to December 2023. Data were collected on patient demographics, timing of bronchoscopy, methods and duration of mold removal, complications, and nursing management of complications. Results The study cohort comprised 22 pediatric PB patients (17 males and 5 females) with a median age of 3.00 years (IQR: 1. 42 to 5.25 years). The mold removal techniques applied were spraying acetylcysteine solution followed by negative pressure suction (11 cases, 50.00%), biopsy forceps extraction (3 cases, 13.64%) and brush extraction (8 cases, 36.36%). The median duration of bronchoscopic manipulation for mold removal was 11. 50 minutes (IQR: 9.75 to 15. 25 minutes). The median number of bronchoscope passes through the glottis was 4 (IQR: 3 to 5). Bronchoscopic examinations were conducted once in 6 patients (27.27%), twice in 12 patients (54.55%), and three times in 4 patients (18.18%). Common complications included intraoperative hypoxia (8 cases, 36.36%), airway mucosal bleeding (4 cases, 18.18%), postoperative hypoxia (2 cases, 9.09%), and laryngeal edema (1 cases, 4.55%). All complications were effectively managed with appropriate interventions and nursing care. Conclusion Flexible bronchoscopy combined with various mold removal techniques is a safe and effective approach for managing PB in children, with manageable com- plications. The use of acetylcysteine solution spray in conjunction with negative pressure suction, biopsy forceps, and brush extraction enhances the success rate of mold removal. Proper nursing interventions are crucial for minimizing and managing procedural complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphatic disorders in congenital heart disease can be broadly classified into chest compartment, abdominal compartment, or multicompartment disorders. Heavily T2-weighted noninvasive lymphatic imaging (for anatomy) and invasive dynamic contrast magnetic resonance lymphangiography (for flow) have become the main diagnostic modalities of choice to identify the cause of lymphatic disorders. Selective lymphatic duct embolization (SLDE) has largely replaced total thoracic duct embolization as the main lymphatic therapeutic procedure. Recurrence of symptoms needing repeat interventions is more common in patients who underwent SLDE. Novel surgical and transcatheter thoracic duct decompression strategies are promising, but long-term follow-up is critical and eagerly awaited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is a common respiratory infection among children. However, the occurrence of thromboembolism with plastic bronchitis in association with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is extremely rare. This case series presents five cases of children with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia who developed thromboembolism and plastic bronchitis. The clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and management strategies are discussed. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on medical records from a pediatric hospital. Patient demographics, clinical features, laboratory findings, imaging results, treatment modalities, and outcomes were collected. Results: The patients in our case series presented with varying degrees of respiratory distress, cough, and fever. Imaging studies revealed evidence of thromboembolism based on pulmonary artery occlusion. Bronchial casts were observed by bronchoscopy. Laboratory tests demonstrated elevated D-dimer levels and fibrinogen degradation products. All patients received a combination of low molecular weight heparin anticoagulation and supportive care. Conclusion: Thromboembolism with plastic bronchitis associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia is a rare but potentially serious complication in children. Prompt recognition and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes. This case series highlights the diverse clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies for this unique clinical entity. Further research is needed to better understand the pathogenesis and optimal management of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic bronchitis (PB) constitutes a life-threatening pulmonary disorder, predominantly attributed to Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infection. The pathogenic mechanisms involved remain largely unexplored, leading to the absence of reliable approaches for early diagnosis and clear treatment. Thus, the present investigation aimed to develop an MP-induced mouse model of PB, thereby enhancing our understanding of this complex condition. In the first stage, healthy BALB/c mice were utilized to investigate the optimal methods for establishing PB. This involved the application of nebulization (15–20 min) and intratracheal administration (6–50 μL) with 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) concentrations ranging from 4.5% to 7.5%. Subsequently, the MP model was induced by administering an MP solution (2 mL/kg/day, 108 CFU/50 μL) via the intranasal route for a duration of five consecutive days. Ultimately, suitable techniques were employed to induce plastic bronchitis in the MP model. Pathological changes in lung tissue were analyzed, and immunohistochemistry was employed to ascertain the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. The administration of 4.5% CEES via a 6 µL trachea was the optimal approach to establishing a PB model. This method primarily induced neutrophilic inflammation and fibrinous exudate. The MP-infected group manifested symptoms indicative of respiratory infection, including erect hair, oral and nasal secretions, and a decrease in body weight. Furthermore, the pathological score of the MP+CEES group surpassed that of the groups treated with MP or CEES independently. Notably, the MP+CEES group demonstrated significant activation of the VEGFR-3 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways, implying a substantial involvement of lymphatic vessel impairment in this pathology. This study successfully established a mouse model of PB induced by MP using a two-step method. Lymphatic vessel impairment is a pivotal element in the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying this disease entity. This accomplishment will aid in further research into treatment methods for patients with PB caused by MP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveWe aimed to investigate the clinical features of children with plastic bronchitis caused by pneumonia, and assess the risk factors for pleural effusion (PE) in plastic bronchitis.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on children with plastic bronchitis and hospitalized in Xiamen Children’s Hospital from January 2017 to April 2023. Participants were categorized based on the presence of PE. Their clinical manifestations and laboratory findings were analyzed.ResultsSixty-nine children with plastic bronchitis were enrolled: 34 cases (49.27%) in the non-PE group and 35 cases (50.72%) in the PE group. No significant differences were found in sex, age, and etiology between the two groups. Significant differences were found in fever duration, C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (p31.66 mg/L or LDH >551 U/L. The prediction of PE was performed with the combination of CRP >31.66 mg/L and LDH >551 U/L, using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The area under the curve (AUC) for logistic regression was 0.797. Elevated CRP increased the risk of PE (odds ratio [OR] 8.358, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.179–42.900, p=0.0042), elevated LDH increased the risk of PE (OR 5.851 [95% CI 1.950–19.350], p=0.0023).ConclusionThe combined detection of CRP and LDH helps predict the risk of PE in children with plastic bronchitis caused by pneumonia.

Abstract Background Plastic bronchitis (PB) can occur in patients who have undergone congenital heart surgery (CHS). This study aimed to investigate the clinical features of PB in children after CHS. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the electronic medical record system. The study population consisted of children diagnosed with PB after bronchoscopy in the cardiac intensive care unit after CHS from May 2016 to October 2021. Results A total of 68 children after CHS were finally included in the study (32 in the airway abnormalities group and 36 in the right ventricular dysfunction group). All children were examined and treated with fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Pathogens were detected in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of 41 children, including 32 cases in the airway abnormalities group and 9 cases in the right ventricular dysfunction group. All patients were treated with antibiotics, corticosteroids (intravenous or oral), and budesonide inhalation suspension. Children with right ventricular dysfunction underwent pharmacological treatment such as reducing pulmonary arterial pressure. Clinical symptoms improved in 64 children, two of whom were treated with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) due to recurrent PB and disease progression. Conclusions Children with airway abnormalities or right ventricular dysfunction after CHS should be alerted to the development of PB. Pharmacological treatment such as anti-infection, corticosteroids, or improvement of right ventricular function is the basis of PB treatment, while fiberoptic bronchoscopy is an essential tool for the diagnosis and treatment of PB. ECMO assistance is a vital salvage treatment for recurrent critically ill PB patients.

Xue-hua Xu,1,&ast; Jie-rong Cai,2,&ast; Hui-feng Fan,1,&ast; Ting-ting Shi,1 Di-yuan Yang,1 Li Huang,3 Dong-wei Zhang,1 Gen Lu1 1Department of Respiratory, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Panyu District Central Hospital, Guangdong, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China; 3Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Gen Lu, Department of Respiratory, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 20 38076135, Fax +86 20 38076626, Email lugen5663330@sina.comPurpose: Plastic bronchitis (PB), a rare complication of respiratory infection characterized by the formation of casts in the tracheobronchial tree, can lead to airway obstruction and severe condition. Adenovirus is one of the common pathogens of PB caused by infection. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical features and risk factors for PB in children with severe adenovirus pneumonia.Methods: A retrospective study of children with severe adenovirus pneumonia with bronchoscopy results at Guangzhou Women and Children’s Hospital between January 2018 and January 2020 was performed. Based on bronchoscopy, we divided children with severe adenovirus pneumonia into two groups: PB and non-PB. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for PB in patients with severe adenovirus pneumonia after univariate analysis.Results: Our study examined 156 patients with severe adenovirus pneumonia with bronchoscopy results in hospital. Among them, 18 developed PB and 138 did not. On multivariate analysis, the independent risk factors of PB in children with severe adenovirus pneumonia were history of allergies (OR 10.147, 95% CI 1.727– 59.612; P=0.010), diminished breath sounds (OR 12.856, 95% CI 3.259– 50.713; P=0.001), and increased proportion of neutrophils (> 70%; OR 8.074, 95% CI 1.991– 32.735; P=0.003).Conclusion: Children with severe adenovirus pneumonia with a history of allergies, diminished breath sounds, and increased the proportion of neutrophils > 70% may show higher risk of PB.Keywords: plastic bronchitis, severe adenovirus pneumonia, risk factors, children

Abstract Background This study investigated clinical and laboratory characteristics of human bocavirus type 1 (HBoV1)‐plastic bronchiolitis (PB), Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP)‐associated plastic bronchitis (PB) and MP‐NPB in children, highlighting inflammation, coagulation, and bronchoscopic needs. Methods Data on preschool children with PB during HBoV1 or MP infection were collected, comparing MP‐PB to severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. Result Compared with the MP‐PB group, the HBoV1‐PB group, with younger children, had significantly milder clinical symptoms but higher WBC counts (p = .028). The MP‐PB group exhibited notably elevated Fibrinogen (p = .045) and d‐dimer levels (p

Fontan circulation failure is a term used for cardiogenic non-cardiac and/or cardiac complications after Fontan surgery, such as persistent edema, reduced cardiac output with limited physical capacity, protein-losing enteropathy, plastic bronchitis, Fontan-associated liver disease, and arrhythmias. It is a serious late problem in patients after Fontan surgery. Its pathogenesis is complex, multifactorial and still a serious challenge in terms of its prevention and therapeutic behaviour. In recent years, there is a significant progress in the understanding of this problem, giving hope for achieving better results in the treatment of patients. The review presents comprehensive information concerning the risk factors, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of these complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We analyzed the clinical characteristics of children with plastic bronchitis (PB) caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) and explored its risk factors. Methods: We prospectively analyzed clinical data of children with MP pneumonia (MPP) treated with fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB). Patients were classified into a PB and non-PB group. General information, clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, results of computed tomography scan, and FB findings were compared between groups. We conducted statistical analysis of risk factors for developing PB. Results: Of 1169 children who had MPP and were treated with FB, 133 and 1036 were in the PB and non-PB groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in sex, age, and incident season between groups (P > 0.05). The number of children in the PB group decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared with children in the non-PB group, those in the PB group had longer duration of hospitalization, increased levels of neutrophil (N), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST); lower levels of lymphocyte (L) and platelet (PLT); and higher incidence of lack of appetite, decreased breath sounds, single lobar infiltrate, pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, mucosal erosion and/or necrosis, and bronchial embolization. L levels and pleural effusion were identified as risk factors in multivariate logistic regression. Conclusions: Children with PB caused by MPP had a strong and local inflammatory response. L levels and pleural effusion were independent risk factors of PB with MPP in children. Our findings will help clinicians identify potential PB in pediatric patients for early and effective intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES Effects of aortopulmonary collaterals (APCs) on outcomes after the total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) are unclear. This study evaluated the incidence of APCs before and after TCPC and analysed the impacts of APCs on adverse outcomes. METHODS A total of 585 patients, who underwent TCPC from 1994 to 2020 and whose preoperative angiographies were available, were included. Pre-TCPC angiograms in all patients were used for the detection of APCs, and post-TCPC angiograms were evaluated in selected patients. Late adverse events included late death, protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) and plastic bronchitis (PB). RESULTS The median age at TCPC was 2.3 (1.8–3.4) years with a body weight of 12 (11–14) kg. APCs were found in 210 patients (36%) before TCPC and in 81 (14%) after TCPC. The closure of APCs was performed in 59 patients (10%) before TCPC, in 25 (4.2%) at TCPC and in 59 (10%) after TCPC. The occurrences of APCs before and after TCPC were not associated with short-term or mid-term mortality. The APCs before TCPC were associated with chylothorax (P  = 0.025), prolonged chest tube duration (P  = 0.021) and PB (P  = 0.008). The APCs after TCPC were associated with PLE (P  < 0.001) and PB (P  < 0.001). With APCs following TCPC, freedom from PLE and PB was lower than without (P  < 0.001, P  < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS APCs before TCPC were associated with chylothorax, prolonged chest tube duration and PB. APCs after TCPC were associated with both PLE and PB. The presence of APCs might affect the lymph drainage system and increase the incidence of chylothorax, PLE and PB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background We analyzed the clinical characteristics of children with plastic bronchitis (PB) caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) and explored its risk factors. Methods We prospectively analyzed clinical data of children with MP pneumonia (MPP) treated with fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FB). Patients were classified into a PB and non-PB group. General information, clinical manifestations, laboratory tests, results of computed tomography scan, and FB findings were compared between groups. We conducted statistical analysis of risk factors for developing PB. Results Of 1169 children who had MPP and were treated with FB, 133 and 1036 were in the PB and non-PB groups, respectively. There were no significant differences in sex, age, and incident season between groups (P > 0.05). The number of children in the PB group decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared with children in the non-PB group, those in the PB group had longer duration of hospitalization, increased levels of neutrophil (N), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST); lower levels of lymphocyte (L) and platelet (PLT); and higher incidence of lack of appetite, decreased breath sounds, single lobar infiltrate, pleural effusion, pericardial effusion, mucosal erosion and/or necrosis, and bronchial embolization. L levels and pleural effusion were identified as risk factors in multivariate logistic regression. Conclusions Children with PB caused by MPP had a strong and local inflammatory response. L levels and pleural effusion were independent risk factors of PB with MPP in children. Our findings will help clinicians identify potential PB in pediatric patients for early and effective intervention.

Abstract Background The etiology of Plastic bronchitis (PB) is unknown. The incidence of pulmonary infection associated with PB has increased year by year, but respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as a pathogen causes PB has rarely been reported. Case presentation A 2-year-old immunocompromised girl was admitted to the hospital with cough, fever for 5 days, and aggravated with shortness of breath for 1 day. With mechanical ventilation, her respiratory failure was not relieved, and subcutaneous emphysema and mediastinal pneumatosis appeared. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was administrated, but the tidal volume was low. Therefore, a bronchoscopy was performed, by which plastic secretions were found and removed. Pathology of the plastic secretions confirmed the diagnosis of type I PB. RSV was the only positive pathogen in the alveolar lavage fluid by the next-generation sequencing test. After the bronchoscopic procedure, her dyspnea improved. The patient was discharged with a high-flow nasal cannula, with a pulse oxygen saturation above 95%. Half a year after discharge, she developed sequelae of bronchitis obliterans. Conclusion RSV could be an etiology of PB, especially in an immunocompromised child. In a patient with pulmonary infection, if hypoxemia is presented and unresponded to mechanical ventilation, even ECMO, PB should be considered, and bronchoscopy should be performed as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and to treat.

Abstract Objective To investigate the etiological characteristics of plastic bronchitis (PB) caused by pulmonary infections in children and to identify any differences in the clinical features of PB cases caused by different pathogens. Method We collected data on children diagnosed with PB and admitted to the Respiratory Department at Soochow University Children’s Hospital between July 2021 and March 2023 utilizing electronic bronchoscopy. We analyzed clinical characteristics and the species of pathogens causing the illness in these children. Result A total of 45 children were enrolled. The main clinical symptoms observed were cough (100%), fever (80%), shortness of breath (28.9%), and wheezing (20.0%). Pathogens were identified in 38 (84.4%) patients. Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) had the highest detection rate at 53.3%, followed by the Boca virus at 26.7%. MP-induced PB typically occurs in older children with an average age of 7.46 ± 2.36 years, with the main symptoms including high fever (85.7%) and local hyporespiration (42.9%). In contrast, Boca virus-induced PB tends to occur in younger children, with the main symptoms of moderate fever (54.5%), and wheezing (54.5%). The MP group exhibited a higher incidence of both internal and external pulmonary complications, including pleural effusion (42.9%), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (52.4%), lactic dehydrogenase (76.2%), and D-D dimer (90.5%). Conversely, the Boca virus group primarily showed pulmonary imaging of atelectasis (81.8%), with no pleural effusion. The average number of bronchoscopic interventions in the MP group was 2.24 ± 0.62, which was significantly higher than that required in the Boca virus group (1.55 ± 0.52). During the second bronchoscopy, 57.1% of children in the MP group still had visible mucus plugs, while none were observed in the Boca virus group. Conclusion MP and Boca virus are the primary pathogens responsible for PB among children. The clinical manifestations of PB typically vary significantly based on the pathogen causing the condition.

Plastic bronchitis (PB) constitutes a life-threatening pulmonary disorder, predominantly attributed to Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) infection. The pathogenic mechanisms involved remain largely unexplored, leading to the absence of reliable approaches for early diagnosis and clear treatment. Thus, the present investigation aimed to develop an MP-induced mouse model of PB, thereby enhancing our understanding of this complex condition. In the first stage, healthy BALB/c mice were utilized to investigate the optimal methods for establishing PB. This involved the application of nebulization (15–20 min) and intratracheal administration (6–50 μL) with 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide (CEES) concentrations ranging from 4.5% to 7.5%. Subsequently, the MP model was induced by administering an MP solution (2 mL/kg/day, 108 CFU/50 μL) via the intranasal route for a duration of five consecutive days. Ultimately, suitable techniques were employed to induce plastic bronchitis in the MP model. Pathological changes in lung tissue were analyzed, and immunohistochemistry was employed to ascertain the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3) and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. The administration of 4.5% CEES via a 6 µL trachea was the optimal approach to establishing a PB model. This method primarily induced neutrophilic inflammation and fibrinous exudate. The MP-infected group manifested symptoms indicative of respiratory infection, including erect hair, oral and nasal secretions, and a decrease in body weight. Furthermore, the pathological score of the MP+CEES group surpassed that of the groups treated with MP or CEES independently. Notably, the MP+CEES group demonstrated significant activation of the VEGFR-3 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways, implying a substantial involvement of lymphatic vessel impairment in this pathology. This study successfully established a mouse model of PB induced by MP using a two-step method. Lymphatic vessel impairment is a pivotal element in the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying this disease entity. This accomplishment will aid in further research into treatment methods for patients with PB caused by MP.

Qian Hu,1 Jianle Wu,1 Chengqian Wang,1 Wen Liang,1 Yulei Wang,1 Yuejie Zheng,1 Feiqiu Wen,2 Wenjian Wang,1,&ast; Uet Yu2,&ast; 1Department of Respiratory Diseases, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Uet Yu, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, 7019, Yitian, Road, Shenzhen, 518038, People’s Republic of China, Email cloveringo69@hotmail.com Wenjian Wang, Department of Respiratory Diseases, Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, 7019, Yitian, Road, Shenzhen, 518038, People’s Republic of China, Email wwjxx@126.comBackground: Plastic bronchitis (PB) is a rare and severe lung disease. It can be triggered by influenza virus infection, which is a common respiratory infection in children. Bronchoscopy can aid in the early detection and treatment of PB. However, the outcomes and risk for PB development in pediatric patients with influenza virus infection are not fully understood.Methods: Data from 321 children diagnosed with influenza virus pneumonia who underwent bronchoscopy examinations between 1st January, 2009 and 31st December, 2020 were retrospectively analyzed to assess the outcomes and risk factors associated with PB development.Results: This study included 97 girls and 224 boys with influenza virus pneumonia with a median age of 42 months. Among them, 36 patients (11.2%) were categorized as having PB based on bronchoscopy findings. PB patients had significantly longer fever durations (p=0.010) and higher risks of developing severe conditions including respiratory failure (p< 0.001), acute respiratory distress syndrome (p< 0.001), and air-leak syndrome (p< 0.001) compared to non-PB patients. Conventional treatment including the use of neuraminidase inhibitors and antibiotics did not differ between the PB and non-PB patients, but PB patients required more anti-inflammatory treatment (p=0.019) and ventilator support (p< 0.001). Combined univariate and multivariate analyses suggested that radiographic findings, including mediastinal emphysema (p=0.012) and lung consolidation (p=0.012), as well as increased levels of neutrophils (p=0.026), aspartate aminotransferase (p=0.004), and lactate dehydrogenase (p< 0.001), were identified as risk factors for PB development in patients with influenza virus pneumonia. Although PB patients required more intensive care and had longer hospital stays, they all recovered well after treatment.Conclusion: Influenza virus infection is linked to PB development in children. Identifying risk factors and early intervention such as bronchoscopy can improve the prognosis of children with PB.Keywords: influenza virus, plastic bronchitis, bronchoscopy, pneumonia, pediatric

BackgroundHuman adenovirus (HAdV) infections in children can lead to profound pulmonary injury and are frequently associated with severe complications, particularly in cases concomitant with plastic bronchitis. Managing this condition presents significant challenges and carries an exceptionally high fatality rate. Regrettably, there are currently no specific antiviral agents that have demonstrated efficacy in treating severe adenovirus pneumonia in children.Case presentationWe report a 10-month-old infant suffering from severe adenovirus pneumonia combined with plastic bronchitis (PB). He received intravenous ribavirin combined with recombinant human interferon α1b (INFα1b) aerosol inhalation and his condition eventually improved. No side effects occurred during the treatment, and the long-term prognosis was favorable.ConclusionIn this case, the combination therapy of intravenous ribavirin and INFα1b seems to have contributed to the resolution of illness and may be considered for similar cases until stronger evidence is generated.

Fontan physiology creates a chronic state of decreased cardiac output and systemic venous congestion, leading to liver cirrhosis/malignancy, protein-losing enteropathy, chylothorax, or plastic bronchitis. Creating a fenestration improves cardiac output and relieves some venous congestion. The anatomic connection of the thoracic duct to the subclavian-jugular vein junction exposes the lymphatic system to systemic venous hypertension and could induce plastic bronchitis. To address this complication, two techniques have been developed. A surgical method that decompresses the thoracic duct by diverting the innominate vein to the atrium, and a percutaneous endovascular procedure that uses a covered stent to create an extravascular connection between the innominate vein and the left atrium. We report a novel variant transcatheter intervention of the innominate vein turn-down procedure without creating an extravascular connection in a 39-month-old patient with failing Fontan circulation complicated by plastic bronchitis and a 2-year post-intervention follow-up.

This study presents a rare case of plastic bronchitis (PB) in a 57-year-old adult post-lung lobectomy, a condition predominantly found in post-Fontan children. The patient exhibited progressive dyspnea and complete atelectasis on the surgical side, revealing a gray rubbery bronchial cast obstructing the right main bronchus. Treatment involved repeated bronchoscopies, glucocorticoids, acetylcysteine, physiotherapy, and a low-fat diet, leading to gradual improvement. No similar cases have been reported, highlighting PB's diagnostic challenge. This underscores the need to consider rare conditions like PB in post-lobectomy complications. Timely examinations and bronchoscopies are essential for accurate diagnosis, ensuring prompt treatment and improving patient outcomes.

Key message Plastic bronchitis is characterized by sputum obstructing the bronchus and causing atelectasis. Bronchoscopic removal of the clogged bronchial cast is typically performed, but small‐diameter bronchoscopes with narrow suction ports cannot achieve adequate suction. Suction using a bronchoscope as a guide sheath may be effective for treating plastic bronchitis in children.

Background: The etiology of Plastic bronchitis (PB) is unknown. The incidence of pulmonary infection associated with PB has increased year by year, but respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) as a pathogen causes PB has rarely been reported. Case presentation: A 2-year-old immunocompromised girl was admitted to the hospital with cough, fever for 5 days, and aggravated with shortness of breath for 1 day. With mechanical ventilation, her respiratory failure was not relieved, and subcutaneous emphysema and mediastinal pneumatosis appeared. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was administrated, but the tidal volume was low. Therefore, a bronchoscopy was performed, by which plastic secretions were found and removed. Pathology of the plastic secretions confirmed the diagnosis of type I PB. RSV was the only positive pathogen in the alveolar lavage fluid by the next-generation sequencing test. After the bronchoscopic procedure, her dyspnea improved. The patient was discharged with a high-flow nasal cannula, with a pulse oxygen saturation above 95%. Half a year after discharge, she developed sequelae of bronchitis obliterans. Conclusion: RSV could be an etiology of PB, especially in an immunocompromised child. In a patient with pulmonary infection, if hypoxemia is presented and unresponded to mechanical ventilation, even ECMO, PB should be considered, and bronchoscopy should be performed as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and to treat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphatic flow disorders are rare but devastating complications in children with congenital heart disease. T2-weighted magnetic resonance lymphography and intranodal dynamic contrast magnetic resonance lymphangiography are imaging modalities that can depict central lymphatic anatomy and flow pattern. Our objective was to describe the technical aspects and our imaging findings of central lymphatic abnormalities and their impact on patient management and outcomes: We conducted a retrospective review of 26 children with congenital heart disease who presented for lymphatic imaging between 2015 and 2020 at our institution. Eleven had postoperative chylothorax, six had plastic bronchitis, seven had protein-losing enteropathy and three had Noonan syndrome. Our lymphatic imaging demonstrated severely abnormal lymphatic flow in all of the children, but only minor abnormalities in protein-losing enteropathy. No major procedure-related complication occurred. Lymphatic interventions were performed in six patients, thoracic duct decompression in two patients and chylothorax revision in three patients. This led to symptomatic improvements in all of the patients: Lymphatic imaging is safe and essential for the diagnosis of lymphatic flow disorders and therapy planning. Our intranodal lymphangiography depicts an abnormal lymphatic flow pattern from the central lymphatics but failed to demonstrate an abnormal lymphatic flow in protein-losing enteropathy. These imaging techniques are the basis for selective lymphatic interventions, which are promising to treat lymphatic flow disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the etiological characteristics of plastic bronchitis (PB) caused by pulmonary infections in children and to identify any differences in the clinical features of PB cases caused by different pathogens. Method: We collected data on children diagnosed with PB and admitted to the Respiratory Department at Soochow University Children's Hospital between July 2021 and March 2023 utilizing electronic bronchoscopy. We analyzed clinical characteristics and the species of pathogens causing the illness in these children. Result: A total of 45 children were enrolled. The main clinical symptoms observed were cough (100%), fever (80%), shortness of breath (28.9%), and wheezing (20.0%). Pathogens were identified in 38 (84.4%) patients. Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) had the highest detection rate at 53.3%, followed by the Boca virus at 26.7%. MP-induced PB typically occurs in older children with an average age of 7.46 ± 2.36 years, with the main symptoms including high fever (85.7%) and local hyporespiration (42.9%). In contrast, Boca virus-induced PB tends to occur in younger children, with the main symptoms of moderate fever (54.5%), and wheezing (54.5%). The MP group exhibited a higher incidence of both internal and external pulmonary complications, including pleural effusion (42.9%), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (52.4%), lactic dehydrogenase (76.2%), and D-D dimer (90.5%). Conversely, the Boca virus group primarily showed pulmonary imaging of atelectasis (81.8%), with no pleural effusion. The average number of bronchoscopic interventions in the MP group was 2.24 ± 0.62, which was significantly higher than that required in the Boca virus group (1.55 ± 0.52). During the second bronchoscopy, 57.1% of children in the MP group still had visible mucus plugs, while none were observed in the Boca virus group. Conclusion: MP and Boca virus are the primary pathogens responsible for PB among children. The clinical manifestations of PB typically vary significantly based on the pathogen causing the condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Plastic bronchitis (PB) is a rare disease characterized by obstruction of the airway by fibrinous mucus plugs. The etiology can be idiopathic or secondary to systematic diseases such as congenital heart diseases. Definitive diagnosis is made by pathological examination of the sputum or bronchial sample taken by bronchoscopy. In this study, the clinical status and treatment status of patients with PB were evaluated. Materials and Methods: Medical records of the patients diagnosed as PB were reviewed retrospectively. Age, gender, clinical symptoms, radiology, bronchoscopic findings, and pathology results were documented. Results: Six patients with PB were included in this study (female:male, 2:4). The median age of the diagnosis was 45 months. The most common symptoms are persistent wet cough and shortness of breath. The duration of symptoms ranged from 30 to 90 days. Atelectasis was the most common radiological finding. Diagnosis was made with pathological examination of the mucus in all patients. All of the patients were treated with bronchoscopic removal of the mucus, and 4 patients required oral prednisolone therapy. Symptoms and radiological findings resolved completely in all patients. Conclusion: Although PB is a rare disease, it should be kept in mind in relation to patients with persistent radiological and clinical respiratory symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate and analyze the clinical features of coexisting human bocavirus (HBoV) positivity and plastic bronchitis (PB). We present three cases with no known history of cardiac surgery who presented with cough, progressive dyspnea, and atelectasis. They tested positive for HBoV in a real-time polymerase chain reaction of both nasal lavage fluids. They were diagnosed with PB as a result of bronchoscopy and pathology. PB is a rare disease characterized by forming thick rigid casts in the tracheobronchial tree, which can progress to respiratory failure. While asthma or atopy-related type 1 PB was observed in one patient, two patients were diagnosed with PB, which was thought to have developed secondary to viral infections of unknown etiology. As far as we know, HBoV-associated PB cases are rare in the literature. Besides the commonly known infectious agents, we identified a relationship with HBoV in all the presented cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Plastic bronchitis is characterized by sputum obstructing the bronchus and causing atelectasis. Bronchoscopic removal of the clogged bronchial cast is typically performed, but small‐diameter bronchoscopes with narrow suction ports cannot achieve adequate suction. Suction using a bronchoscope as a guide sheath may be effective for treating plastic bronchitis in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To study the clinical characteristics of plastic bronchitis (PB) in children and investigate the the risk factors for recurrence of PB. Methods This was a retrospective analysis of medical data of children with PB who were hospitalized in Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from January 2012 to July 2022. The children were divided into a single occurrence of PB group and a recurrent PB group and the risk factors for recurrence of PB were analyzed. Results A total of 107 children with PB were included, including 61 males (57.0%) and 46 females (43.0%), with a median age of 5.0 years, and 78 cases (72.9%) were over 3 years old. All the children had cough, 96 children (89.7%) had fever, with high fever in 90 children. Seventy-three children (68.2%) had shortness of breath, and 64 children (59.8%) had respiratory failure. Sixty-six children (61.7%) had atelectasis and 52 children (48.6%) had pleural effusion. Forty-seven children (43.9%) had Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, 28 children (26.2%) had adenovirus infection, and 17 children (15.9%) had influenza virus infection. Seventy-one children (66.4%) had a single occurrence of PB, and 36 cases (33.6%) had recurrent occurrence of PB (≥2 times). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that involvement of 52 lung lobes (OR=3.376) under bronchoscopy, continued need for invasive ventilation after initial removal of plastic casts (OR=3.275), and concomitant multi-organ dysfunction outside the lungs (OR=2.906) were independent risk factors for recurrent occurrence of PB (P<0.05). Conclusions Children with pneumonia accompanied by persistent high fever, shortness of breath, respiratory failure, atelectasis or pleural effusion should be highly suspected with PB. Involvement of 52 lung lobes under bronchoscopy, continued need for invasive ventilation after initial removal of plastic casts, and concomitant multi-organ dysfunction outside the lungs may be risk factors for recurrent occurrence of PB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early assessment of refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP) with plastic bronchitis (PB) allows timely removal of casts using fiberoptic bronchoscopic manipulation, which relieves airway obstruction and limit sequelae development. This study aimed to analyze clinical data for risk factors and develop a nomogram for early predictive evaluation of RMPP with PB. The clinical data of 1-14 year-old patients with RMPP were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were classified into a PB or non-PB group. The general characteristics, clinical symptoms, laboratory test results, imaging findings, and microscopic changes of the two groups were compared. A statistical analysis of the risk factors for developing PB was performed, and a nomogram model of risk factors was constructed. Of 120 patients with RMPP included, 68 and 52 were in the non-PB and PB groups, respectively. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, fever before bronchoscopy, extrapulmonary complications, pleural effusion, cough duration, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were identified as risk factors. A nomogram was constructed based on the results of the multivariate analysis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value of the nomogram was 0.944 (95% confidence interval: 0.779-0.962). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test displayed good calibration of the nomogram (p = 0.376, R2 = 0.723). Conclusion: The nomogram model constructed in this study based on five risk factors (persistent fever before bronchoscopy, extrapulmonary complications, pleural effusion, cough duration, and LDH levels) prior to bronchoscopy can be used for the early identification of RMPP-induced PB. What is Known: • Refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP) in children has been increasingly reported and recognized, which often leads to serious complications. • Plastic bronchitis (PB) is considered to be one of the causes of RMPP, and bronchoscopic treatment should be improved as soon as possible to remove plastic sputum thrombus in bronchus. What is New: • This study determined the risk factors for RMPP-induced PB. • The nomogram model constructed in this study prior to bronchoscopy can be used for the early identification of RMPP-induced PB, which facilitate the early bronchoscopic removal of casts, thereby promoting recovery and reducing cases with poor RMPP prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports a case of a 7-year-old child with severe pneumonia whose chest CT showed pulmonary consolidation, and bronchoscopy revealed plastic bronchitis. The metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of the pulmonary lavage fluid suggested the infection of Tropheryma whipplei (T whipplei). The patient was treated with bronchial lavage to remove sputum plugs, intravenous azithromycin, and piperacillin-tazobactam and was discharged after eight days of hospitalization without any recurrence during follow-up. This article aims to raise clinical awareness of T whipplei infection and suggests that NGS for rare pathogens should be performed early for unexplained plastic bronchitis.

Abstract Background Early identification of plastic bronchitis (PB) is of great importance and may aid in delivering appropriate treatment. This study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram for predicting PB in patients with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (RMPP). Methods A total of 547 consecutive children with RMPP who underwent fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) intervention from January 2016 to June 2021 were enrolled in this study. Subsequently, 374 RMPP children (PB: 137, without PB: 237) from January 2016 to December 2019 were assigned to the development dataset to construct the nomogram to predict PB and 173 RMPP children from January 2020 to June 2021 were assigned to the validation dataset. The clinical, laboratory and radiological findings were screened using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression and logistic regression was applied to construct a nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated by discrimination, calibration and clinical utility. Comparsion of ROC analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) between nomogram and other models was performed to evaluate the discrimination ability and clinical utility. Results The development dataset included 374 patients with a mean age of 6.6 years and 185(49.5%) were men. The validation dataset included 173 patients and the mean age of the dataset was 6.7 years and 86 (49.7%) were men. From 26 potential predictors, LASSO regression identified 6 variables as significant predictive factors to construct the nomogram for predicting PB, including peak body temperature, neutrophil ratio (N%), platelet counts (PLT), interleukin-6 (IL-6), actic dehydrogenase (LDH) and pulmonary atelectasis. The nomogram showed good discrimination, calibration and clinical value. The mean AUC of the nomogram was 0.813 (95% CI 0.769–0.856) in the development dataset and 0.895 (95% CI 0.847–0.943) in the validation dataset. Through calibration plot and Hosmer–Lemeshow test, the predicted probability had a good consistency with actual probability both in the development dataset (P = 0.217) and validation dataset (P = 0.183), and DCA showed good clinical utility. ROC analysis indicated that the nomogram showed better discrimination ability compared with model of peak body temperature + pulmonary atelactsis and another model of N% + PLT + IL-6 + LDH, both in development dataset (AUC 0.813 vs 0.757 vs 0.754) and validation dataset (AUC 0.895 vs 0.789 vs 0.842). Conclusions In this study, a nomogram for predicting PB among RMPP patients was developed and validated. It performs well on discrimination ability, calibration ability and clinical value and may have the potential for the early identification of PB that will help physicians take timely intervention and appropriate management.

Bronchocele is an abnormal accumulation of mucus often with associated bronchial dilatation. It can be due to either increased production or impaired drainage of mucus in the airways. Diseases like chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis are characterized by high mucus production and other atypical conditions are bronchorrhea and plastic bronchitis with different physical characteristics and compositions of mucus. Improper drainage can lead to bronchocele formation due to underlying benign, malignant tumours or bronchial stenosis. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) has a peculiar appearance with high attenuated mucus (HAM) in imaging. Careful evaluation of bronchocele is needed as it can be associated with bronchial obstruction or rare causes like plastic bronchitis. Proper identification, evaluation for the underlying cause is key for not missing the underlying diagnosis and accurate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background With an increase in the diagnosis of plastic bronchitis (PB) cases, to enhance paediatricians’ knowledge and add to the few existing studies, we explored the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of PB in children. Methods The clinicopathological data of 43 children admitted to the Xiamen Children’s Hospital and the Women and Children’s Hospital, affiliated to the Xiamen University from December 2016 to December 2019, were retrospectively analysed. Results All the children had cough, with 41 of them having associated fever. A peak temperature > 40 ℃ was observed in 25 children. Twenty-six children had shortness of breath, 27 had reduced respiratory sounds on the affected side, and 35 had audible moist rales on the affected side. Lactate dehydrogenase in all children increased to different degrees, and 29 had elevated D-dimer and fibrinogen degradation products. Lung imaging showed pulmonary consolidation and atelectasis, mainly in the bilateral lower lung lobes, in all the children. However, 31 had pleural effusion, mainly a small parapneumonic effusion. The infections were mainly caused by adenovirus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The casts in all 43 children were sucked or clamped out under bronchoscopy, and 10 were found to have type I PB on pathological examination. All children were treated with anti-infective therapy in addition to bronchoscopic cast removal. Thirty-one children were treated with methylprednisolone, and 16 with gamma globulin. Except for one child who was non-adherent to treatment, all other children showed improvement, or were cured and discharged from the hospital. Follow-up lung imaging at 3 months revealed that the lungs were fully re-expanded in 40 children. At the 6-month follow-up, six children had small airway lesions, four had obliterative bronchiolitis, and one had bronchiectasis. Conclusions Paediatric PB often occurs secondary to respiratory tract infections and progresses rapidly, with hyperpyrexia, cough, and shortness of breath as the main clinical manifestations. Pulmonary consolidation, atelectasis, and pleural effusion are seen on lung imaging, and early bronchoscopy and removal of casts in the trachea and bronchi are effective treatment options.

To evaluate the prevalence of veno-venous collaterals (VVCs) after total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) and analyze their impact on outcomes. Patients undergoing TCPC between 1994 and 2022 were evaluated. VVCs were identified using angiograms of cardiac catheterizations and their impact on outcomes was analyzed. A total of 635 patients were included. Median age at TCPC was 2.3 (interquartile ranges (IQR): 1.8–3.3) years. The most frequent diagnosis was hypoplastic left heart syndrome in 173 (27.2%) patients. Prior bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt was performed in 586 (92.3%) patients at a median age of 5.3 (3.6–9.9) months. VVCs were found in 94 (14.8%) patients at a median of 2.8 (0.1–11.8) years postoperatively. The prevalence of VVCs was similar between the dominant right and left ventricle (14.7 vs. 14.9%, p = 0.967). Mean pulmonary artery pressure (16.2 vs. 16.0 mmHg, p = 0.902), left atrial pressure (5.5 vs. 5.7 mmHg, p = 0.480), transpulmonary gradient (4.0 vs. 3.8 mmHg, p = 0.554) and oxygen saturation (81.4 vs. 82.6%, p = 0.103) before TCPC were similar between patients with and without VVCs. The development of VVCs did not affect survival after TCPC (p = 0.161). Nevertheless, VVCs were a risk for the development of plastic bronchitis (PB, p < 0.001). Interventional closure of VVCs was performed in 60 (9.4%) patients at a median of 8.9 (0.6–15.1) years after TCPC, and improvement of oxygen saturation was observed in 66% of the patients. The prevalence of VVCs after TCPC was 15%. VVCs had no impact on survival following TCPC but were associated with a high prevalence of PB. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphatic flow disorders are rare but devastating complications in children with congenital heart disease. T2-weighted magnetic resonance lymphography and intranodal dynamic contrast magnetic resonance lymphangiography are imaging modalities that can depict central lymphatic anatomy and flow pattern. Our objective was to describe the technical aspects and our imaging findings of central lymphatic abnormalities and their impact on patient management and outcomes: We conducted a retrospective review of 26 children with congenital heart disease who presented for lymphatic imaging between 2015 and 2020 at our institution. Eleven had postoperative chylothorax, six had plastic bronchitis, seven had protein-losing enteropathy and three had Noonan syndrome. Our lymphatic imaging demonstrated severely abnormal lymphatic flow in all of the children, but only minor abnormalities in protein-losing enteropathy. No major procedure-related complication occurred. Lymphatic interventions were performed in six patients, thoracic duct decompression in two patients and chylothorax revision in three patients. This led to symptomatic improvements in all of the patients: Lymphatic imaging is safe and essential for the diagnosis of lymphatic flow disorders and therapy planning. Our intranodal lymphangiography depicts an abnormal lymphatic flow pattern from the central lymphatics but failed to demonstrate an abnormal lymphatic flow in protein-losing enteropathy. These imaging techniques are the basis for selective lymphatic interventions, which are promising to treat lymphatic flow disorders.

Children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome share unique hemodynamic features that alter lymphatic integrity at all stages of palliation. Lymphatic congestion is almost universal in this patient group to some extent. It may lead to reversal of lymphatic flow, the development of abnormal lymphatic channels and ultimately decompression and loss of protein rich lymphatic fluid into extra lymphatic compartments in prone individuals. Some of the most devastating complications that are associated with single ventricle physiology, notably plastic bronchitis and protein losing enteropathy, have now been proven to be lymphatic in origin. Based on the new pathophysiologic concept new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies have recently been developed. Dynamic contrast magnetic resonance lymphangiography is now mainstay in diagnosis of lymphatic insufficiency and allows a thorough assessment of anatomy and function of the main lymphatic compartments through intranodal, intrahepatic and intramesenteric lymphatic imaging. Contrast enhanced ultrasound can evaluate thoracic duct patency and conventional fluoroscopic lymphangiography has been refined for evaluation of patients where magnetic resonance imaging cannot be performed. Novel lymphatic interventional techniques, such as thoracic duct embolization, selective lymphatic duct embolization and liver lymphatic embolization allow to seal abnormal lymphatic networks minimally invasive and have shown to resolve symptoms. Innominate vein turn-down procedures, whether surgical or interventional, have been designed to reduce lymphatic afterload and increase systemic preload effectively in the failing Fontan circulation. Outflow obstruction can now be managed with new microsurgical techniques that create lympho-venous anastomosis. Short term results for all of these new approaches are overall promising but evidence is sparse and long-term outcome still has to be defined. This review article aims to summarize current concepts of lymphatic flow disorders in single ventricle patients, discuss new emerging diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and point out lacks in evidence and needs for further research on this rapidly growing topic.

Plastic bronchitis can cause fatal airway obstruction. An 85-year-old woman with no medical history presented to the emergency department of our hospital with progressing respiratory failure and hemoptysis. Bronchoscopy revealed a fibrin-type cast thrombus in the trachea, and plastic bronchitis was diagnosed. Initial treatment involved airway thrombus removal, and the patient survived. However, bleeding persisted for 6 days, and respiratory status showed slight improvement despite ventilatory management. Steroids were administered for concomitant acute respiratory distress syndrome, and there was marked improvement in both airway hemorrhage and respiratory failure. The patient was extubated, the steroid dose was reduced, and no rebleeding was observed. The patient was discharged from the hospital 1 month after the onset of symptoms. Blood tests were positive for the myeloperoxidase-anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody; however, no biopsy was performed, and no specific symptoms were observed. A definitive diagnosis was therefore not reached. The causes of plastic bronchitis are numerous, and there are no standardized diagnostic criteria or treatment guidelines for this condition. The present case suggests that steroids may be effective in some patients with plastic bronchitis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:The essential role of the lymphatic system in fluid homeostasis, nutrient transport, and immune trafficking is well recognized; however, there is limited understanding of the mechanisms that regulate lymphatic function, particularly in the setting of critical illness. The lymphatics likely affect disease severity and progression in every condition, from severe systemic inflammatory states to respiratory failure. Here, we review structural and functional disorders of the lymphatic system, both congenital and acquired, as they relate to care of the pediatric patient in the intensive care setting, including novel areas of research into medical and procedural therapeutic interventions. RECENT FINDINGS:The mainstay of current therapies for congenital and acquired lymphatic abnormalities has involved nonspecific medical management or surgical procedures to obstruct or divert lymphatic flow. With the development of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance lymphangiography, image-directed percutaneous intervention may largely replace surgery. Because of new insights into the mechanisms that regulate lymphatic biology, pharmacologic inhibitors of mTOR and leukotriene B4 signaling are each in Phase II clinical trials to treat abnormal lymphatic structure and function, respectively. SUMMARY:As our understanding of normal lymphatic biology continues to advance, we will be able to develop novel strategies to support and augment lymphatic function during critical illness and through convalescence.

Pandemic influenza virus A(H1N1)pdm09 infection occurred in healthy children and young adults, but asthmatic patients presented more rapid progression of respiratory distress and plastic bronchitis. To investigate the pathogenesis of worsening respiratory symptoms after A(H1N1)pdm09 infection, we focused on matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‐1 (TIMP‐1). MMP‐9 and TIMP‐1 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and serum from mice with and without asthma were evaluated after A(H1N1)pdm09 or seasonal A(H1N1) infection. MMP‐9 levels were more elevated in Asthma/A(H1N1)pdm09‐infected mice than in non‐Asthma/A(H1N1)pdm09‐infected mice on both 3 and 7 days post‐infection. Immunohistochemical findings in this pneumonia model showed that MMP‐9 and TIMP‐1 positive cells were observed in blood vessels and bronchus of lung tissue in severe pathological findings of pneumonia with asthma. Microscopically, shedding cells and secretions were conspicuous in the trachea on days 3 and 7 post‐infection, in the A(H1N1)pdm09‐infected mice with asthma. Our results suggest that MMP‐9 and TIMP‐1 expressions are related to severe pneumonia in the A(H1N1)pdm09 infection with asthma, leading to cause epithelial cell shedding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plastic bronchitis (PB) is a clinical-pathological syndrome characterized by the abnormal accumulation of endogenous substances in the bronchial airways, causing partial or complete obstruction and resulting in impaired lung ventilation., Methods: In this retrospective analysis, we aim to summarize the clinical manifestations, imaging characteristics, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches to enhance clinicians' ability to detect children who are infected with human bocavirus 1 (hBoV 1) and develop PB., Results: In the period from January 2021 to January 2024, a total of six hBoV 1 infection children were diagnosed with PB through bronchoscopy. The onset of the condition was mainly concentrated between June and December. The detection methods used included metagenomic next-generation sequencing for pathogen identification (three cases) and respiratory pathogen nucleic acid 13-plex detection (oropharyngeal swab) (three cases), both of which confirmed the presence of hBoV 1. Out of the six children with PB, two were girls and four were boys. Their ages ranged from 10 months to 4 years old. Common symptoms reported by all patients included fever, cough, and wheezing. Chest high-resolution computed tomography scans revealed atelectasis in six cases, in addition to pneumonia. After the removal of the plastic bronchi via bronchoscopy, the airway obstruction symptoms in the children were relieved, and no recurrence was observed during the follow-up period. Pathological findings indicated cellulose exudation and inflammatory cell infiltration, consistent with nonlymphatic PB., Conclusion: When children infected with hBoV 1 exhibit persistent or worsening symptoms such as cough, fever, and wheezing despite treatment, clinicians should remain highly vigilant for the potential occurrence of PB. Bronchoscopy plays a crucial role not only in diagnosing the presence of a plastic bronchus but also in effectively treating PB., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)