Hemoptysis and hematemesis due to a broncholith: granulomatous mediastinitis

A 40-year-old man had new onset of hemoptysis and hematemesis. Bronchoscopy revealed red, inflamed mucosa with apparent rich blood supply in the left primary bronchus. Computed tomography revealed calcified subcarinal lymph nodes with a small extension into the left primary bronchus. Shortly after admission, the patient had an episode of gastrointestinal bleeding. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a lesion in the posterior wall of the esophagus, 12 cm from the upper incisors. During exploratory thoracotomy, a single piece of irregular-shaped tan tissue measuring 3.5 x 2.5 x 2.0 cm and engulfing the esophagus, carina, and left primary bronchus was dissected. A single stonelike mass, or broncholith, was found to involve both the trachea and the esophagus. Microscopic examination showed multiple caseating granulomas with surrounding lymphoid tissue and germinal centers. During 12 months of follow-up, the patient has remained asymptomatic. The chronic inflammation in this case suggested granulomatous mediastinitis, a rare disease whose mass-like effects may contribute to structural compression. The trachea and esophagus are rarely involved. Tuberculosis and histoplasmosis are thought to be the two most common causes of granulomatous mediastinitis. Chronic inflammation leading to calcification and broncholith may invade bronchial lumen or esophageal wall, causing life-threatening hemorrhage and necessitating prompt surgical intervention.