[Endobronchial lipomas. Apropos of 4 cases]

We present 4 cases of endobronchial lipomas observed in our department over the last fifteen years. Histological diagnosis was obtained in all cases after endobronchoscopy and biopsy. Endobronchial exeresis was possible in one patient, lobectomy was required in a second. For the other two patients, surgery was not performed due to the patient's age and the small size of the tumor. Radiography, bronchoscopy and computed tomography findings suggested the diagnosis which was confirmed at pathology examination of the biopsy or surgical specimen. Treatment for endobronchial lipoma should be as conservative as possible either by endobronchial or laser resection. Thoracotomy should only be used when bronchial or pulmonary alterations are irreversible.