Tracheal Lobular Capillary Hemangioma: A Rare Localization

Lobular capillary hemangioma is a benign vascular tumor commonly found within the skin and upper respiratory mucosa and has rarely been reported within the trachea. The first case was reported by Irani et al. in 2003 and since then, less than 20 cases have been described. That's why the characteristics and treatments remain relatively unknown.

A 53-year-old woman was symptomatic of recurrent episodes of hemoptysis associated with paroxysmal dyspnea. Physical examination, routine blood investigations, and chest x-ray were normal. The flexible bronchoscopy showed a polypoid bleeding lesion arising from the right lateral wall of the middle third of the trachea. Tumor biopsy was not performed considering an eventual bleeding risk. Computed tomography scanning showed a vascular, endotracheal budding tissue process without peritracheal or distant extension. A rigid bronchoscopy was performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A 10-millimeter bronchoscope was used. A rigid coring technique was performed to remove the tumor. A minimal bleeding was completely controlled after diode laser treatment. There were no complications during or after the procedure. Pathology revealed no malignancy and the diagnosis of lobular capillary hemangioma was confirmed. At a 6-month follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic and the endoscopic control did not show any tumor recurrence.

The lobular capillary hemangioma is a benign tumor rarely observed in the trachea. Clinical features are not specific and the short-term prognosis depends on tumor size. Considering its benign nature, tumor removal by interventional bronchoscopy should be proposed as the first-line treatment.