[Bronchoscopic diagnosis of peripheral lung cancer]

The diagnostic value of bronchologic procedures in identification of peripheral cancer of the lung versus tumor's size, endoscopic pattern of bronchial lesion and tumor position with respect to the root of the lung was assessed. Rigid endoscopes and bronchofibroscopes were used in 806 patients with peripheral lung cancer. Bronchoscopic diagnosis of cancer was morphologically confirmed in 64.9% (respiratory endoscope alone--51.3 +/- 3%; bronchofibroscope or combined use of both devices--71.9 +/- +/- 2%).