An obstructing endobronchial lipoma simulating COPD

Abstract

Endobronchial lipomas are rare benign tumors of the respiratory tract. Bronchial occlusion may cause parenchymal damage and lead to a misdiagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or malignancy. Therefore, both accurate diagnosis and radical treatment of endobronchial lipomas are essential. We describe the case of a 61-year-old man with a history of smoking (40 pack years), dyspnea in exertion, and cough during the past 6 months due to an endobronchial lipoma. Chest computed tomographic (CT) scan revealed a circumscribed polypoid lesion partially obstructing the left lower lobe. The endobronchial lipoma was removed by flexible bronchoscopy, and the patient had complete resolution of symptoms following the procedure. Flexible bronchoscopy was normal at the 3-month follow-up. In addition, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of endobronchial lipomas are discussed.