Peripheral Endobronchial Lipoma: A Case Report

Abstract

We report our experience with an endobronchial lipoma, a rare benign tumor, that is often undiagnosed prior to surgical resection. Although such tumors are uncommon, they are important clinically because they are difficult to distinguish from bronchogenic neoplasms and if they are left untreated they can cause significant morbidity and occasional mortality. They usually present as a mass within a large bronchus and can be visualized and resected through a bronchoscope. The endobronchial lipoma in our patient originated in a segmental bronchus and obstructed smaller subsegmental bronchi. We describe clinical features, preoperative diagnosis, and possible treatment of these tumors.