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Summary
Calcified hilar lymph nodes can cause endobronchial obstruction, leading to decreased lung perfusion. Imaging techniques like bronchography helped identify this rare cause of bronchial compression in two patients.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Endobronchial lesions can present with varied symptoms.
- Hilar lymph node calcifications are often incidental findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of endobronchial obstruction and decreased lung perfusion in two patients.
- To highlight the role of calcified hilar lymph nodes as an etiology for bronchial compression.
Main Methods:
- Radionuclide imaging to assess lung perfusion.
- Chest radiography (PA views) for initial lung assessment.
- Bronchography and tomography for detailed bronchial tree visualization.
Main Results:
- Patients presented with symptoms suggestive of endobronchial lesions.
- Radionuclide imaging revealed decreased unilateral lung perfusion.
- Chest films showed hilar lymph node calcifications but otherwise normal lung fields.
- Bronchography and tomography confirmed bronchial tree compression and obstruction by calcified lymph nodes.
Conclusions:
- Calcified hilar lymph nodes can cause significant endobronchial obstruction.
- This obstruction can lead to symptoms and abnormal lung perfusion.
- Radiographic and bronchographic findings were crucial in diagnosing this condition.