Diagnostic value of transbronchial lung biopsy in lymphangioleiomyomatosis

The clinical definite diagnosis of lymphangioleiomyomatosis(LAM) can be made based on the clinical presentations, serology and radiology, but lung biopsy remains a gold standard to achieve diagnosis. Pathology is important in differential diagnosis for LAM and other cystic lung diseases. Transbronchial lung biopsy(TBLB)is less invasive and safer than other biopsy methods. TBLB has been widely applied in the diagnosis of other diffuse lung diseases. Its value in LAM, however, is a matter of debate. According to the available literature, the positive rate of TBLB in diagnosis of LAM is 33%-87%, the occurrence rate of pneumothorax and bleeding is 6% and 4% respectively. TBLB could be safely applied as an invasive procedure to obtain pathological diagnosis of LAM. Key words: Lymphangioleiomyomatosis; Bronchoscopy