Bronchial adenoma: An unusual cause of recurrent pneumonia in childhood

Primary lung tumors are rare in childhood and often overlooked owing to the nonspecific presentation. We report the case of a 15-year-old boy with a 3-year history of recurrent pneumonia always involving the right lower lobe due to bronchial mucinous adenoma. After endoscopic removal the tumor recurred locally, necessitating open surgical resection of the tumor. In a child with localized recurrent pneumonia of uncertain pathogenesis, the differential diagnosis should include a primary lung tumor. Bronchial adenomas should not be removed endoscopically; patients must undergo open thoracotomy for surgical excision. (C) 2003 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.