Utility of endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration in diagnosis of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy in patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection

Abstract

Objective. Intrathoracic lymphadenopathy (LAD) in patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection is common, with wide-ranging diagnoses, from benign to malignant causes. Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a relatively new technology with established applications in lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and tuberculosis. We sought to find out whether the addition of EBUS-TBNA to the diagnostic algorithm for LAD in HIV patients will reduce the need for mediastinoscopy. Methods. Retrospective chart review of all EBUS-TBNA procedures performed in our centre from August 2008 to December 2012. Results. 513 patients had EBUS-TBNA performed during this period. We identified nine HIV-infected patients who had LAD of unknown cause and underwent EBUS-TBNA. The procedure reduced the need for mediastinoscopy in eight patients (89%). Conclusions. Potential mediastinoscopies can be avoided by utilising EBUS-TBNA in HIV patients with LAD.