Mounier-Kuhn syndrome masquerading as obstructive lung disease

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is present in 10.1% of the population and is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States while the prevalence of asthma in adults is 6.7%.¹ Patients presenting to primary care offices with lower respiratory tract symptoms like dyspnea and wheezing are often diagnosed with COPD or asthma and started on treatment. There are uncommon conditions like Mounier-Kuhn syndrome (MKS) that can present with similar symptoms and it is important for the primary care physician to keep them in mind when evaluating patients. It is important to identify MKS, as early recognition can lead to better management and prevention of complications. We describe a case of an older gentleman with recurrent symptoms of shortness of breath and intermittent spells of productive sputum who was misdiagnosed with COPD for years. Our diagnosis was supported by a clinical history and confirmed by radiographic evidence.