Background: Primary adenoid cystic carcinoma in the trachea (TACC) is a rare tumour. Tracheal bronchoscopy is always chosen as a routine approach to obtain a pathological diagnosis, but it can be associated with an increased risk of asphyxia.
Case summary: We describe a case of TACC in a patient evaluated by chest computed tomography (CT) with three-dimensional reconstruction imaging and diagnosed by transoesophageal endoscopic ultrasonography. The pathological diagnosis confirmed tracheal adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Conclusion: We highlight the importance of CT and provide a successful exploration of transoesophageal biopsy as a safe alternative approach.
Keywords: Adenoid cystic carcinoma; Case report; Three-dimensional computed tomography reconstruction; Tracheal obstruction; Transoesophageal endoscopic ultrasonography.
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