Feasibility and long-term safety of Ho:YAG laser lithotripsy in broncholithiasis patients

Combined Endoscopic Laser and Cryotherapy Management of Pediatric Central Airway Obstruction Secondary to a Histoplasmosis-Related Broncholith

Broncholithiasis due to pulmonary histoplasmosis causing central airway obstruction and broncho-mediastinal fistula is a rare complication in the pediatric population. A 16-year-old previously healthy female was referred to a university hospital for worsening cough and shortness of breath for over a two-year period. Radiologic investigation revealed a calcified subcarinal lymph node eroding into the left mainstem bronchus causing central airway obstruction and collapse of the left lower lobe. Direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy showed a large obstructive lesion in the left mainstem bronchus. Debulking of the endobronchial lesion was performed with neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser and cryotherapy. Pathology examination was consistent with broncholith. Great clinical and radiological response to the procedure was evident with complete re-expansion of the left lung and resolution of symptoms.