Endobronchial

Endobronchial refers to anything located within the lumen of the bronchi or the broader tracheobronchial tree. The word combines endo- meaning inside with bronchial, and it is used to describe diseases, procedures, or devices that affect the interior airway surfaces from the trachea down to the segmental bronchi.

Endobronchial disease usually involves intraluminal processes that obstruct or irritate the airway. Common examples include endobronchial tumors (such as primary lung cancers with luminal growth or carcinoid tumors), benign stenosis from scarring or inflammation, mucus plugging, and inflammatory polyps. Symptoms can include cough, wheeze, shortness of breath, and recurrent infections related to impaired drainage.

Diagnosis and management rely on bronchoscopy, which provides direct visualization of the airway and access for sampling and treatment. Flexible or rigid bronchoscopy enables assessment and tissue biopsy; endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) augments evaluation of peribronchial and mediastinal structures. Therapeutic endobronchial techniques aim to restore airway patency and may include removing obstructions with suction or laser, electrocautery, cryotherapy, or argon plasma coagulation; mechanical debulking; stent placement to maintain airway caliber; and, in select cases, endobronchial valves or local drug delivery. Resection or ablation methods may be combined with systemic therapy for malignant disease.

Complications are possible and can include bleeding, infection, pneumothorax, and stent-related issues. The term endobronchial emphasizes interior airway involvement and is used across diagnostic, interventional, and therapeutic contexts in pulmonology.