A Case of Bronchopulmonary Actinomycosis Necessitating Tracheobronchial Metal Stent Removal

Abstract

Background. Bronchopulmonary actinomycosis is a rare disease known to be caused mainly by foreign matter. The removal of this foreign matter via long-term antibiotic administration is critical for its successful treatment. Case. A 74-year-old male had advanced-stage lung cancer. The right bronchus intermedius was blocked by the tumor, leading to respiratory failure. A tracheobronchial metal stent was placed to treat this condition. However, five years after placement, the condition was complicated by development of bronchopulmonary actinomycosis at the stent placement site. Antibiotics were ineffective, so the airway stent was removed with biopsy forceps to alleviate the patient's hypoxemia. Results. The bronchopulmonary actinomycosis was eventually cured, and antibacterial therapy was provided. The patient experienced no recurrence over a one-year follow-up period. Conclusion. Removal of the offending foreign matter is critical for the treatment of bronchopulmonary actinomycosis, as reported previously. However, in the present case, removal of the tracheobronchial metal stent carried a risk of severe bleeding and mucosal damage. The removal of such sensitive material therefore needs to be approached carefully.