Usefulness of Various Diagnostic Techniques during Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy for Endoscopically Visible Lung Cancer: Should Cytologic Examinations Be Performed Routinely?

Abstract

Routine cytological examination of bronchial washings does not increase the yield of forceps biopsy specimens. Transbronchial needle aspiration may give an additional positive yield to forceps biopsy. We conclude that a combination of forceps biopsy and brushing is the best strategy in the diagnosis of bronchoscopically visible lung cancer.