Endobronchial Leiomyoma Successfully Treated by Endobronchial Electrocautery

Abstract

We report a case of endobronchial leiomyoma successfully treated by endobronchial electrocautery. A 64-year-woman received a diagnosis of bronchial asthma and was treated with a bronchodilator from June 1993. In December 1994, a linear atelectatic shadow was detected in the right upper lung field on a routine chest radiograph. Flexible bronchoscopy showed an endobronchial tumor that obstructed the right upper lobe bronchus. The tumor was successfully resected using the endobronchial electrocautery wire snare. The tumor, 12 mm in diameter, was very firm and had a smooth surface. Histologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of benign leiomyoma and a positive cut end of the tumor. The chest radiograph findings and respiratory function improved after the tumor resection. The patient is well without any signs of recurrence 5 years after the tumor resection, despite the positive cut end.

Journal of Bronchology7:240-243, 2000.

FEV₁, forced expiratory volume in 1 second