Bronchial adenoma

Bronchial adenoma is a rare type of lung cancer that originates from the mucous glands and ducts of the bronchial tubes. Despite the term "adenoma" which typically refers to benign tumors, bronchial adenomas are often malignant and can spread to other parts of the body.

Classification

Bronchial adenomas can be classified into several types based on their cellular structure. These include carcinoid tumors, adenoid cystic carcinomas, and mucoepidermoid carcinomas. Each of these types has distinct characteristics and may require different treatment approaches.

Symptoms

The symptoms of bronchial adenoma can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include persistent cough, coughing up blood (hemoptysis), wheezing, and recurrent lung infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis. In some cases, bronchial adenomas may not cause any symptoms and are discovered incidentally during a routine imaging test.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of bronchial adenoma typically involves a combination of history taking, physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsy. Imaging tests such as chest radiography, computed tomography (CT) scan, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help identify the location and size of the tumor. A biopsy, where a small sample of the tumor is removed for microscopic examination, is usually necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of bronchial adenoma.

Treatment

The treatment for bronchial adenoma depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. In some cases, if the tumor is small and not causing any symptoms, doctors may choose to monitor the tumor with regular imaging tests instead of immediate treatment.

Prognosis

The prognosis for bronchial adenoma varies widely depending on the type and stage of the tumor at the time of diagnosis. In general, early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis.

See also

• Lung cancer
• Carcinoid
• Adenoid cystic carcinoma
• Mucoepidermoid carcinoma

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Bronchial adenoma

Bronchial adenoma is a rare disease.