Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
Substernal Thyroid Biopsy Using Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration
Published on: November 10, 2014
Primary endobronchial Burkitt's lymphoma in a child: a case report
Taisuke Kobayashi1, Masamitsu Hyodo, Nobumitsu Honda
1Department of Otolaryngology, Kochi Medical School, Nankoku, Kochi, Japan. tkobayashi@kochi-u.ac.jp
Insights
Pediatric primary endobronchial tumors, like Burkitt's lymphoma, are rare and often misdiagnosed. Early bronchoscopy is crucial for diagnosing these airway tumors in children presenting with persistent pneumonia or atelectasis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Pulmonology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Primary endobronchial tumors are uncommon in pediatric patients.
- These tumors are frequently misdiagnosed, leading to treatment delays.
- Persistent pneumonia or atelectasis in children can mask underlying neoplastic processes.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old girl presented with persistent pneumonia unresponsive to medical therapy.
- Chest radiography revealed left lung atelectasis, initially suggesting a foreign body.
- Bronchoscopy identified a granulomatous tumor obstructing the left main bronchus.
Findings:
- Histopathological analysis confirmed localized Burkitt's lymphoma of the trachea.
- This diagnosis highlights a rare presentation of pediatric lymphoma.
Implications:
- The case underscores the importance of considering endobronchial tumors in the differential diagnosis of pediatric respiratory symptoms.
- Early bronchoscopic evaluation is recommended for children with persistent atelectasis or recurrent pneumonia.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of pediatric endobronchial tumors are vital for improved outcomes.
Abstract:
Primary endobronchial tumors are rare in children and often are misdiagnosed, resulting in a delay of appropriate treatment. Here, we present a case of 4-year-old girl with primary endobronchial lymphoma who presented with persistent pneumonia despite medical treatment. Her chest radiograph showed left atelectasis, and a bronchial foreign body was initially suspected. Bronchoscopic examination demonstrated a granulomatous tumor occupying the left main bronchus. Localized Burkitt's lymphoma in the left trachea was diagnosed histopathologically. This case emphasizes the consideration of endobronchial tumor and bronchoscopy in children who show persistent atelectasis or recurrent pneumonia.
