Endobronchial tuberculosis with lobar obstruction successfully treated by argon plasma coagulation

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Endobronchial tuberculosis (EBTB) involves tuberculous infection of the airways.
• Middle lobe syndrome is a potential complication of pulmonary tuberculosis.

Observation:

• A 17-year-old male with tuberculosis presented with fever, cough, and weight loss.
• Fiberoptic bronchoscopy revealed obstruction of the right middle lobe.
• Bronchial biopsy confirmed necrotizing granulomas and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Findings:

• The patient's condition progressed despite standard antituberculous and corticosteroid therapy.
• Argon plasma coagulation was used to remove the endobronchial lesion.
• Following the procedure, the patient showed radiologic and clinical improvement.

Implications:

• Argon plasma coagulation is a viable treatment option for refractory endobronchial tuberculosis.
• Alternative interventions should be considered for EBTB cases unresponsive to steroid treatment.
• This case highlights the importance of endoscopic interventions in managing complex airway tuberculosis.