Multidetector computed tomography imaging of congenital anomalies of major airways: A pictorial essay.

Congenital airway anomalies can be asymptomatic or may cause severe respiratory distress requiring immediate treatment. These anomalies can present early in life, or may be just incidental findings. It is important to recognize these entities to realize their clinical significance and to avoid false diagnosis. In this article, the various congenital airway anomalies and their imaging features by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) are reviewed in order of occurrence during the embryological timeline. This pictorial essay reviews the various distinct congenital airway lesions and their MDCT manifestations. It also provides insight into the embryological basis of the congenital airway lesions encountered.