Dyspnea and wheezing: still a challenge for pulmonologists

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Oncology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Schwannomas are neurogenic tumors arising from Schwann cells, typically benign and asymptomatic.
• Intrathoracic and endobronchial locations for schwannoma are exceptionally rare.
• Benign schwannomas usually do not recur after appropriate intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of endobronchial schwannoma presenting with respiratory symptoms.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic utility of endoscopic techniques for rare pulmonary tumors.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of an 83-year-old woman with persistent cough and wheezing.
• Diagnostic workup included chest tomography and fiberoptic bronchoscopy with biopsy.
• Therapeutic intervention involved laser bronchoscopy for tumor ablation.

Main Results:

• Chest tomography revealed an ill-defined right hilar mass obstructing the upper lobe bronchus.
• Biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of benign schwannoma.
• Laser bronchoscopy successfully ablated the tumor, leading to complete resolution of respiratory symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Endobronchial schwannoma is an exceptionally rare cause of obstructive respiratory symptoms.
• Endoscopic techniques, such as laser bronchoscopy, are effective for diagnosing and treating rare endobronchial tumors.
• Timely intervention for benign schwannoma prevents recurrence and alleviates clinical manifestations.