Comprehensive Evaluation of Endobronchial Lesions: Correlating Clinical, Radiological, Bronchoscopic, and Histopathological Findings in Patients Undergoing Fibreoptic Bronchoscopy

Abstract

Background: Endobronchial lesions are abnormal tumors or alterations of the bronchial tree with varied etiologies, including malignant, infectious, inflammatory, and benign conditions. Fibreoptic bronchoscopy continues to be a critical diagnostic modality for the direct visualization and tissue sampling. Objective: To evaluate the clinical, radiological, bronchoscopic, and histopathological features of endobronchial lesions identified via fibreoptic bronchoscopy. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out at a tertiary care center (LRH) from January to December 2024. Sixty-four patients with endobronchial lesions visible on bronchoscopy were enrolled. Clinical evaluations, imaging, bronchoscopic findings, and biopsies were examined and categorized. Results: The majority of the patients were older males (mean age group: 56–65 years; 73.4% male). Dyspnea (64%) was the most frequent symptom, and mass lesions (54.6%) were the most frequent radiologic finding. Exophytic growths were noted in 46.8% on bronchoscopy. Squamous cell carcinoma (23.4%) was the most frequent diagnosis by histopathology, followed by small cell carcinoma (17.1%) and chronic inflammation (20.3%). The right upper lobe was the most frequently involved site (29.6%). Conclusion: Endobronchial lesions primarily occur in elderly men and often present as malignant masses. Fibreoptic bronchoscopy with histopathological analysis remains crucial for early and accurate diagnosis, particularly in areas endemic for both infectious and malignant conditions.