Lung cancer: endoscopic diagnosis vs pathological diagnosis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the sensitivity of biopsies and cytologies carried out on vegetant bronchogenic tumoral masses viewed on bronchoscopy. Thirty four patients were evaluated between September 1986 and January 1987 in La Maria Hospital, Medellín. Four biopsies were taken and then bronchial brushing was carried out; these were then analysed in the Regional Medical Laboratory (Laboratorio Médico Departamental). The diagnosis was confirmed in 100% of the cases with either of the two methods. Biopsy was more sensitive in confirming the diagnosis (32 cases - 94%) than citology (16 cases -47%). In conclusión, the combination of four biopsies and a citology obtained through bronchial brushings provide an excellent diagnostic security for central bronchial tumors.