The role of the fibreoptic bronchoscope in the diagnosis of bronchial neoplasm.

We report our experience from January 1980 to December 1985 with the fibreoptic bronchoscope in the evaluation of bronchial disease, particularly bronchial neoplasm. Bronchoscopy was performed in 456 patients (329 men, 127 women) and the pathological results were analysed retrospectively. The main indications for bronchoscopy were the radiological findings of a central mass (22%), a peripheral mass (18%), lobar or segmental collapse (14%), unresolved pneumonia (13%), and haemoptysis as a symptom (15%). Abnormal bronchoscopic findings were noted in 167 patients. This was supported by histological examination in 136 patients (81%). In 43 patients (32%) the diagnosis was only made on cytology. The clinical predictive values of common indications were: central mass 0.53, lobar or segmental collapse 0.51, and superior vena cava obstruction 0.36. The fibreoptic bronchoscope is a highly efficient method for diagnosing bronchial malignancy. Bronchial brushing and aspiration should be performed in all cases to maximise the yield.