Transbronchial Forceps Lung Biopsy through the Fiberoptic Bronchoscope: Diagnosis of Diffuse Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Transbronchial forceps biopsy through the fiberoptic bronchoscope was performed in 37 patients. Tissue was technically inadequate for examination in two cases. A pathologic diagnosis was obtained in 26 (72 percent) and in five additional critically ill patients, direct histologic examination of lung tissue allowed exclusion of certain entities, thus significantly influencing therapy. Overall, the procedure was of value in 31 of 35 patients (90 percent). There was no significant hemorrhage and there was one 15 percent pneumothorax. The safety and high diagnostic yield of this technique in the diagnosis of diffuse lung disease is proved.