Endobronchial leiomyoma: case report and literature review

Endobronchial leiomyomas are rare benign tumors of the lung, arising from the smooth muscle of the bronchial tree. Symptomatology is based on the degree of endoluminal bronchial obstruction, and surgical resection has generally been the mainstay of treatment. We describe a mechanically ventilated patient with recurrent atelectasis and a postobstructive pneumonia caused by an occlusive endobronchial leiomyoma who was successfully weaned off the ventilator after treatment with argon plasma coagulation delivered via flexible bronchoscopy. We also briefly review the literature.