Endobronchial Lesions in Children: Radiologic, Bronchoscopic, and Pathologic Correlation

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Interventional Pulmonology

Background:

• Endobronchial lesions in children are rare, with nonspecific symptoms, making early diagnosis difficult.
• Symptoms range from respiratory distress in infants to cough, wheezing, and hemoptysis in older children.
• Radiographic findings like lobar consolidation may mimic pneumonia, masking underlying endobronchial abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review benign and malignant endobronchial pathologic processes in children.
• To discuss the diagnostic challenges and multidisciplinary approach to these conditions.
• To highlight the role of bronchoscopy in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on pediatric endobronchial lesions.
• Discussion of diagnostic modalities, including imaging and bronchoscopy.
• Emphasis on histopathological diagnosis for treatment stratification.

Main Results:

• Foreign body aspiration is a common cause, especially in younger children.
• Endobronchial tumors, mostly benign, are more frequent in older children.
• Bronchoscopy provides direct visualization and tissue diagnosis, crucial for management.

Conclusions:

• Endobronchial abnormalities should be considered in children with refractory respiratory symptoms.
• A multidisciplinary approach is essential for accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment.
• Timely diagnosis and intervention improve outcomes for pediatric patients with endobronchial lesions.