What is agenesis of the lung?

Agenesis of the lung is a rare congenital condition in which a person is born with one or both lungs either completely or partially absent. It occurs when there is a failure of development of the lungs during the early stages of fetal formation.

Bilateral agenesis, where both lungs are absent, is usually fatal to the developing fetus, but unilateral agenesis, where only one lung is absent, may be compatible with life. In such cases, the other lung usually compensates by growing larger and more functional, taking on the workload that would otherwise be shared by two lungs.

Symptoms of agenesis of the lung may include shortness of breath, frequent respiratory infections, and difficulty exercising. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans.

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and the individual case. In some cases, no treatment may be required, while others may require surgery or other interventions to help manage symptoms. People born with agenesis of the lung may also need to manage their condition throughout their lives with ongoing medical care.