Diagnosis and Treatment of Bronchial Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Early Lung Cancer of the Central Airways

Remark: AFB may be used when available. The timing and duration of follow-up are unknown. Background: Bronchial intraepithelial lesions may be precursors of central airway lung carcinomas. Identifi cation and early treatment of these preinvasive lesions might prevent progression to invasive carcinoma. Methods: We systematically reviewed the literature to develop evidence-based recommendations regarding the diagnosis and treatment of intraepithelial lesions. Results: The risk and timeline for progression of bronchial intraepithelial lesions to carcinoma in situ (CIS) or invasive carcinoma are not well understood. Multiple studies show that autofl uorescence bronchoscopy (AFB) is more sensitive that white light bronchoscopy (WLB) to identify these lesions. In patients with severe dysplasia or CIS in sputum cytology who have chest imaging studies showing no localizing abnormality, we suggest use of WLB; AFB may be used as an adjunct when available. Patients with known severe dysplasia or CIS of central airways should be followed with WLB or AFB, when available. WLB or AFB is also suggested for patients with early lung cancer who will undergo resection for delineation of tumor margins and assessment of synchronous lesions. However, AFB is not recommended prior to endobronchial therapy for CIS or early central lung cancer. Several endobronchial techniques are recommended for the treatment of patients with superfi cial limited mucosal lung cancer who are not candidates for resection. Conclusion: Additional information is needed about the natural history and rate of progression of preinvasive central airway lesions. Patients with severe dysplasia or CIS may be treated endobronchially; however, it remains unclear if these therapies are associated with improved patient outcomes. CHEST 2013; 143(5)(Suppl):e263S–e277S