Etymology
“Endo-” means within, and “bronchial” pertains to the bronchi, referring to findings within the bronchial tree.
AKA and abbreviation
Endobronchial findings (EBF).
What is it?
Endobronchial findings describe abnormalities identified within the bronchial tree on imaging or during bronchoscopy, ranging from structural changes to pathological obstructions or secretions.
Characterized by
Visible abnormalities confined to the bronchi, including but not limited to:
Masses or nodules.
Mucosal irregularities.
Airway narrowing or obstruction.
Foreign bodies.
Secretions (e.g., mucus plugs).
Intraluminal calcifications.
Caused by
Most Common Cause(s): Bronchogenic carcinoma, benign tumors, and infections (e.g., endobronchial tuberculosis).
Recurrent infections or post-obstructive pneumonia.
Hemoptysis.
Airway collapse or atelectasis.
Structural changes:
Thickening of bronchial walls.
Narrowing or distortion of airway lumens.
Presence of intraluminal masses or secretions.
Pathophysiology:
The development of endobronchial findings depends on the underlying cause, such as obstruction by a mass, inflammatory mucosal thickening, or dynamic airway collapse.
Pathology:
Benign or malignant tissue obstructing the airway.
Infection-related debris or secretions.
Inflammatory mucosal thickening or granuloma formation.
Imaging: Chest X-ray, CT, and bronchoscopy for direct visualization.
Biopsy or culture of suspicious lesions for definitive diagnosis.
Clinical:
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and cause but may include obstructive symptoms, infection, or systemic manifestations of malignancy or inflammatory disease.
