Lung malformations

What are the most common lung malformations? 

• Congenital Cystic Adenomatoid Malformations (CCAM) are abnormal masses of lung tissue that can contain cysts of various sizes. 
• Pulmonary Sequestration  is a condition in which segments of non-functional lung tissue receive their own abnormal blood supply. 
• Diaphragmatic Hernias are defects in the diaphragm that enable parts of the abdominal organs to move to the thorax, thereby possibly compressing the lungs and preventing their development and functioning.

Pulmonary malformations are often diagnosed during pregnancy. At the Children’s Hospital each case is discussed before birth within a multidisciplinary team of gynaecologists, neonatologists and respiratory paediatricians with parents also present. This cooperation permits an in-depth evaluation and an adapted treatment plan from the time of birth.  Depending on the nature and severity of the malformation, these children can present a number of symptoms at birth, in particular breathing difficulties that sometimes make respiratory assistance necessary. A thorax scan is carried out during the first year of life  to identify the malformation and then draw up an individualised treatment plan that can include surgery to correct the malformation and strategies to prevent and manage respiratory infections. Respiratory physiotherapy can also be prescribed to strengthen lung capacity and reduce the risk of complications. This treatment plan is first discussed with thoracic surgeons and the radiologist at our multidisciplinary meetings.