Abstract
Peripheral airways of 2mm or less in diameter were observed in cases of peripheral airway lesions by means of a very thin bronchofiberscope, 1.8mm in outside diameter. On the basis of the observed and photographed endoscopic findings, an endoscopic classification of peripheral airway lesions was proposed. The endoscopic findings showed changes in the bonchial wall consisting of redness, pallor, lack of luster, edema, vascular engorgement, and uneven or elevated mucosa. In the lumen, stenosis, obstruction, ectasis, and deformation due to pressure were recognized, in addition to excessive secretion and pigmentation as morphological abnormalities or abnormal substances at bifurcations. In performing endoscopy, special efforts were made to obtain as natural a color tone of the bronchial mucosa as possible.
Ordinary endoscopic findings of the peripheral airway and specific findings from patients with peripheral airway lesions were also investigated in order to achieve further understanding of endoscopic findings in peripheral airway lesions.
