Endotracheal hamartoma causing persistent dyspnoea after coronary artery bypass grafting

Abstract

Pulmonary hamartomas are abnormal growths of mature cell or tissue types, including cartilage, epithelium, fat or muscle. Although most cases are benign, asymptomatic and often incidentally discovered, these masses may provoke significant complications via predisposition to obstruction, ischaemia or infection. Pulmonary hamartomas located within the tracheal lumen are exceedingly rare clinical entities which produce symptoms of dyspnoea, cough, stridor, wheezing or angina. Significant clinical consequences include airway obstruction and cardiovascular collapse. Most cases of tracheal hamartoma are initially diagnosed as obstructive pulmonary disease. We present a structured case report of a tracheal hamartoma identified in a patient with recent coronary artery bypass grafting who was initially evaluated for persistent ischaemic pathology, resulting in delay of diagnosis. By review of limited literature of this disorder, we emphasise the need for clinicians to be aware of this indolent and rare entity.