Practical issues in autofluorescence bronchoscopy with Storz D Light bronchoscope

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Autofluorescence bronchoscopy (AFB) is an endoscopic technique used for early detection of lung cancer.
• The Storz Dlight system offers advancements in autofluorescence imaging.
• Accurate interpretation of fluorescence abnormalities is crucial for effective diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the practical aspects and diagnostic yield of Storz Dlight autofluorescence bronchoscopy.
• To identify causes of false positive findings in autofluorescence imaging.
• To determine the positive predictive value of significant fluorescence abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• A series of 73 patients underwent Storz Dlight autofluorescence bronchoscopy.
• 80 biopsies were performed based on fluorescence findings.
• Analysis included correlation of fluorescence abnormalities with histopathological results.

Main Results:

• 23 out of 80 biopsies showed moderate dysplasia or carcinoma in situ (CIS) lesions.
• Identified causes of false positive fluorescence included suction trauma, mucus, and bronchial spur morphology.
• The positive predictive value for significant fluorescence abnormalities was 56%.

Conclusions:

• Storz Dlight autofluorescence bronchoscopy can detect significant dysplasia and CIS.
• Careful interpretation is needed to avoid false positives due to factors like mucus and trauma.
• The highest diagnostic yield was observed in patients with a history of head and neck cancer.