Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vempati Satya Surya Prasanthi, Pediatrician

Tracheomalacia: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Tracheomalacia is a rare condition affecting the trachea (windpipe), characterised by weakened tracheal walls or abnormal floppiness of the supporting cartilage. This causes the airway to collapse or narrow, especially during breathing, coughing, or crying. Tracheomalacia can occur at any age and may be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. Understanding this condition is vital for timely diagnosis and management.

What Is Tracheomalacia?

Tracheomalacia meaning refers to the softening or collapse of the tracheal walls. In healthy individuals, the trachea is supported by strong cartilage rings that maintain its structure. In those with tracheomalacia, the cartilage is weak or malformed, leading to airway instability. This can obstruct airflow, causing breathing difficulties and frequent respiratory infections.

There are two main types:

Tracheomalacia in Infants and Neonates

Tracheomalacia in infants is more common than in adults. Also known as neonatal tracheomalacia, it is often diagnosed within the first few months of life. Babies with this condition may exhibit noisy breathing (stridor), frequent cough, recurrent pneumonia, wheezing that does not improve with treatment or trouble feeding.

This form can occur alone or alongside other airway abnormalities such as laryngomalacia or bronchomalacia. In many cases, it is a benign condition that improves as the child grows and the trachea strengthens naturally. However, severe cases may require medical or surgical intervention.

Adult Tracheomalacia

Adult tracheomalacia is typically acquired and may result from prolonged intubation, chronic infections like tuberculosis or diseases like relapsing polychondritis. In some cases, it occurs due to external compression by goiters or tumors.

Symptoms in adults include:

These symptoms can be mistaken for asthma or chronic bronchitis, making accurate diagnosis critical.

Common Causes of Tracheomalacia

The causes of tracheomalacia vary depending on whether the condition is congenital or acquired:

Congenital Tracheomalacia Causes:

Acquired Tracheomalacia Causes:

Diagnosing Tracheomalacia

Diagnosing tracheomalacia requires a combination of clinical observation and imaging. Since symptoms can mimic asthma or bronchitis, it often goes misdiagnosed without proper evaluation.

Tracheomalacia Radiology and Imaging Techniques

Tracheomalacia radiology plays an essential role in confirming the diagnosis. Key tools include:

These techniques help differentiate between tracheomalacia and other respiratory issues.

Treatment Options for Tracheomalacia

Tracheomalacia treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and whether the condition is congenital or acquired.

Non-Surgical Management:

Surgical Interventions:

Choosing the right approach requires collaboration with tracheomalacia specialists, such as pulmonologists, ENT surgeons, and pediatric airway experts.

Living with Tracheomalacia

While some children outgrow congenital tracheomalacia, others may require ongoing care. For adults, managing underlying causes and avoiding triggers like smoking or pollutants can help reduce symptoms. Patients often need regular follow-ups to monitor lung health and assess airway function.

Parents and caregivers of children with tracheomalacia must watch for signs of breathing distress, ensure vaccinations are up to date and maintain close communication with healthcare providers.

When to See a Tracheomalacia Specialist

If you or your child experiences persistent respiratory issues unresponsive to standard asthma treatment, consult a tracheomalacia specialist. Early diagnosis can prevent complications such as lung infections or chronic respiratory failure.

Specialist care is especially important in cases involving:

Conclusion

Tracheomalacia is a condition characterized by weakened or floppy tracheal cartilage, resulting in airway collapse. Whether congenital or acquired, it can affect breathing, cause recurring infections and reduce quality of life. However, with early diagnosis, proper imaging like tracheomalacia radiology and personalized tracheomalacia treatment plans, many individuals can manage symptoms effectively.

Whether it’s neonatal tracheomalacia, tracheomalacia in infants or adult tracheomalacia, awareness of this condition is key to improving respiratory health. Consult experienced tracheomalacia specialists if symptoms arise and explore the right options to breathe easier.

Frequently Asked Questions