Airway spasm or collapse? An alternate mechanism of action for an important side effect of Sildenafil warrants consideration in patients with tracheobronchomalacia

Cohen et  al report that 2 of 269 pediatric study participants with pulmonary hypertension discontinued sildenafil owing to “airway spasm” described as “episodic desaturation associated with decreased air entry on physical examination, unresponsive to bronchodilators, and require(ing) aggressive baggi ng for resolution of symptoms.”1 Of note, 1 of the 2 patients referenced had severe tracheobronchomalacia. It was hypothesized that sildenafil caused edema in an already compromised airway, leading to episodic occlusion.
Source: The Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Letters to the Editor Source Type: research