[Endobronchial hamartoma; a benign mesenchymal tumor]

Abstract

In this review the histological and clinical features of 12 endobronchial hamartomas seen between 1960 and 1987 are presented. All patients were men; the mean age was 54.0 years. Nine patients presented with pulmonary symptoms, most frequently cough. All lobes were affected, with a slight preponderance in the left upper lobe. Surgical treatment was given to 10 patients. In the other 2 cases bronchoscopic resection was preferable. There were no complications due to therapy. No recurrences were noted. This lesion should be regarded as a true neoplasm, in view of the clinical and histopathological characteristics.