The role of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration in mediastinal processes other than lung cancer

Abstract

The role of endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-guided transbronchial needle aspiration has expanded to include diseases other than lung cancer. In isolated mediastinal adenopathy with a low likelihood of lung cancer, EBUS has sensitivity of 92 %, and can prevent unnecessary mediastinoscopies. The procedure has an established use in sarcoidosis (overall diagnostic yield of 79 %) and in TB lymphadenitis with negative routine cultures. While the evidence in support of EBUS in lymphoma is not as robust, the technique may be used as a minimally invasive first-line diagnostic test. Novel roles for EBUS, such as the diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism, have also been described.