Abstract :
Background and Aim: Fibre optic video bronchoscopy (FOB) is a very safe and highly sensitive investigation for patients in whom we suspect lung malignancy. Bronchoscopy revolutionized early diagnosis of lung cancer by providing cytological and histological specimen in form of bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchial biopsy. In present study we describe our experience of performing bronchoscopy in patients of suspected lung malignancy.
Methodology: Present study is retrospective observational study performed at tertiary care hospital, Sola, Ahmedabad over a period of one year. In this study 40 patients with suspected lung mass in CT underwent bronchoscopy after obtaining well informed written consent. A detailed clinical history, physical examination and necessary investigations were also done.
Results: Of the 40 cases, 30 (75%) were male and 10 (25%) were female. The mean age in this study was 63 years. Squamous cell carcinoma was most common type present in 17.5% of participant, while second most common was adenocarcinoma. Small cell carcinoma was present in 4% and carcinoid was present in 5%. Undifferentiated non-small cell carcinoma was present in 20%. The yield of the study was 60%.
Conclusions: Lung cancer is common malignancy. Bronchial biopsy has very high diagnostic yield. Bronchoscpoic techniques are safe and most precise tool for early diagnosis of suspected lung mass.
Keyword :
Biopsy, Bronchoalveolar lavage, Fibreoptic bronchoscopy, Lung cancer.