When and why

A bronchoscopy can be part of the investigation into the cause of a cough, breathlessness or an abnormal chest X-ray.

A bronchoscope is a flexible tube containing optical fibres which allows the doctor to visualise and take tissue samples (biopsy) from the bronchial tree (breathing tubes) and lungs.

Prior to the procedure the patient is given a light sedative and an injection to dry up the bronchial secretions. Using a local anaesthetic the bronchoscope is passed up through a nostril, down the back of the nose and throat, past the vocal chords and into the lungs. Fluid is washed through a section of the lungs (lavage) to obtain samples to assist in diagnosing infections such as PCP and TB.

After the procedure you may feel drowsy for 3-4 hours and be asked not to eat or drink during this time as the throat and vocal cords have been numbed by the local anaesthetic.

How it will help

Lung infections such as Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), tuberculosis or other bacteria can be more readily diagnosed and the correct treatment given. Kaposi's sarcoma can also be seen down a bronchoscope and may be the cause of cough or breathlessness.