Alessia Spagnoli

Dr. Alessia Spagnoli


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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8 December 2025 in Children
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
VMVirginia Mirra
Virginia Mirra
RTRosamaria Terracciano
Rosamaria Terracciano
ASAlessia Spagnoli
Alessia Spagnoli
PVPierluigi Vuilleumier
Pierluigi Vuilleumier
FAFabio Antonelli
Fabio Antonelli
AAAnnalisa Allegorico
Annalisa Allegorico
Background: Down syndrome (DS) is commonly associated with complex respiratory phenotypes due to anatomical, immunological, and vascular factors. Pulmonary sequestration (PS) is a rare congenital malformation of non-functioning lung tissue with anomalous systemic arterial supply, occasionally reported in syndromic individuals. Case presentation: We report the case of a female infant with DS who developed acute respiratory distress secondary to respiratory syncytial virus infection. Chest imaging revealed an intralobar pulmonary pseudosequestration in the right lower lobe, supplied by the celiac trunk and draining into the pulmonary veins, with a communication to the bronchial tree. The patient required pediatric intensive care support and nutritional rehabilitation. Surgical resection was deferred until adequate weight optimization could be achieved. Discussion: This is, to our knowledge, the first description of intralobar pulmonary pseudosequestration in a patient with DS. The association suggests possible overlapping developmental mechanisms involving abnormal angiogenesis and emphasizes the importance of considering congenital pulmonary malformations in DS patients presenting with recurrent or severe respiratory symptoms. Conclusions: Early recognition and tailored management may improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable population.