Negative Pressure Pulmonary Edema following post-extubation laryngospasm in an adolescent: a case report

Abstract

Negative-pressure pulmonary edema is an uncommon form of noncardiogenic
pulmonary edema that may occur after acute upper airway obstruction and can rapidly cause severe respiratory distress. We report a previously healthy 15-year-old boy who developed laryngospasm immediately after extubation following an uncomplicated appendectomy. Persistent hypoxemia required reintubation, and chest radiography showed bilateral alveolar-interstitial opacities. After restoration of airway
patency and supportive respiratory care, the clinical and radiographic abnormalities improved markedly within 24 hours. Negative-pressure pulmonary edema should be considered when respiratory distress develops after upper airway obstruction.
Prompt recognition supports appropriate airway and ventilatory management and may prevent unnecessary pharmacologic treatment and prolonged hospitalization.