Fluorescence bronchoscopy in the localization of bronchogenic carcinoma

Fluorescence bronchoscopy using hematoporphyrin derivative as a tumor marker has been developed for localization of early bronchogenic carcinoma. Recent clinical results have been obtained with a krypton laser and a fused quartz fiber illumination system, which is clearly superior to the mercury vapor lamp system used previously. Fifteen patients have been examined, two with the laser. The potential of the technique is demonstrated by a case study of a patient with positive sputum cytology and a negative chest radiograph. The small early invasive tumor could be detected only with difficulty by subtle mucosal changes under white light bronchoscopy. Positive fluorescence was observed in the suspicious area. Malignancy was confirmed by biopsy and histologic examination upon subsequent lobectomy.