Cryoprobe biopsy for the diagnosis of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure of undetermined origin

Abstract

Rationale: Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure is a condition that comprises a wide array of entities. Obtaining a histological lung sample might help reach a diagnosis and direct an appropriate treatment in a select group of patients. Objective: To describe our experience in the use of cryobiopsy for the diagnosis of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure of undetermined origin. Methods: Retrospective analysis of case series of patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure who underwent lung cryobiopsy at the Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Results: Cryobiopsy yielded a histological diagnosis in all patients (n = 10, 100%). This led to either a change in therapy or continuation of a specific treatment in eight of these patients. Cryobiopsy was found to be contributive in all the patients who did not meet Berlin criteria for acute respiratory distress syndrome. No major complications were associated with the procedure. Conclusions: Cryobiopsy is a safe procedure with a high diagnostic yield in a selected group of patients.