[Pulmonary myofibroblastoma: the role of primary surgery]

Myofibroblastic tumours or pulmonary pseudotumours are rare and, though benign, they may become invasive and recur after excision.

We report the case of a child aged 14, presenting with mild haemoptysis, who had a solitary nodule at the base of the left lung. CT scanning suggested a hypervascular tumour. Fibreoptic bronchoscopy was normal and it was not possible to perform percutaneous biopsy on account of its proximal situation. A lobectomy was performed via a postero-lateral thoracotomy with a successful outcome. Histological examination revealed a myofibroblastic tumour.

Recourse to primary surgery is essential to confirm the diagnosis of a myofibroblastic pulmonary tumour. Complete resection is the only guarantee to prevent recurrence.