Bilateral multiple tumor-like endobronchial tuberculosis, diagnosed with bronchoscopic examination

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Endobronchial tuberculosis (TB), an infection of the tracheobronchial tree, is uncommon in adults and frequently misdiagnosed, especially without concurrent lung parenchymal disease.
• This condition poses diagnostic challenges and carries a significant risk of developing severe bronchostenosis.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old female presented with a two-month history of severe non-productive cough, dyspnea, and hemoptysis.
• Flexible bronchoscopy revealed bilateral, multiple, tumor-like lesions extending from the main carina into both main bronchi.
• Biopsy confirmed endobronchial tuberculosis (TB).

Findings:

• Antituberculosis therapy was initiated promptly.
• Follow-up re-bronchoscopy at two months showed near-complete resolution of the polypoid lesions.
• The patient recovered without developing any airway stenosis.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering endobronchial tuberculosis (TB) in the differential diagnosis of endobronchial lesions.
• Timely diagnosis and early initiation of treatment are crucial for successful management and preventing complications such as bronchostenosis.
• Prompt treatment of endobronchial TB can lead to complete healing without long-term sequelae.