Congenital Lung Malformation
Developmental lung abnormalities requiring specialized pediatric thoracic surgical management.
Full Definition
Congenital lung malformations encompass a spectrum of developmental abnormalities affecting lung structure and function, including congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), bronchopulmonary sequestration, and congenital lobar emphysema. These conditions may present with respiratory distress in newborns or remain asymptomatic until later childhood. Surgical treatment typically involves lobectomy or segmentectomy, increasingly performed using minimally invasive thoracoscopic techniques. Timing of surgery depends on symptoms and risk of malignant transformation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the exact type of malformation when known; note if symptomatic or asymptomatic.
In Context
- "Prenatal MRI revealed a congenital lung malformation requiring postnatal surgical evaluation." — Fetal medicine consultation
- "Thoracoscopic lobectomy was performed for a symptomatic congenital lung malformation." — Pediatric surgery case log