Tracheal agenesis with multiple congenital anomalies

Abstract

Tracheal agenesis, though seemingly rare and fatal to date, has been reported with increasing frequency. It presents shortly after delivery as severe respiratory distress, absence of audible cry and impossible endotracheal intubation. Attempts to save these children have failed to permit survival although slight prolongation of life was achieved in some. We report a case of tracheal agenesis in a preterm infant associated with other organ malformations. The literature on tracheal agenesis is discussed.