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Uvular necrosis as an unusual complication of bronchoscopy via the nasal approach
Lily Kristine F Sunio1, Tahmeed A Contractor, Gina Chacon
1Division of Internal Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA. lilykristine.sunio@hc.msu.edu
Abstract:
Bronchoscopy can cause post-procedural throat discomfort due to oropharyngeal irritation. We report a rare complication of bronchoscopy that resulted in similar symptoms. A 30-year-old man complained of severe throat discomfort a day after bronchoscopy. Examination revealed a swollen, elongated uvula. The lower half of the uvula was completely white, consistent with uvular necrosis. He was managed conservatively with topical lidocaine and antihistamines. At a follow-up examination 2 weeks later his symptoms had substantially improved and the necrosed uvula had separated, leaving a shortened uvula with an irregular border. Simple precautions taken during bronchoscopy can avoid this rare complication that causes persistent symptoms.
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