Mediastinitis as a complication of transbronchial lymph node biopsy: a case report

Bronchofiberoscopy, particularly when combined with real-time endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (RT-EBUS-TBNA), is a widely available, long-established, and safe diagnostic modality for respiratory diseases, with particular relevance to the evaluation of primary and secondary lung neoplasms. The aim of this study is to present a case of purulent mediastinitis as a complication of RT-EBUS-TBNA, which highlights the increased likelihood of infectious complications in patients with additional risk factors such as diabetes mellitus and immunosuppression, in this instance related to chronic systemic corticosteroid therapy. Furthermore, this report reviews the available literature on the incidence of complications, including infectious events, following EBUS-guided transbronchial biopsy.

Complications following EBUS-guided transbronchial biopsy are rare; therefore, the procedure should be regarded as a safe and recommended diagnostic method.