Utility of Core Needle Biopsies and Transbronchial Biopsies for Diagnosing Nonneoplastic Lung Diseases

Abstract

Context.— Small lung biopsies (core needle biopsies and transbronchial biopsies) are the most common—and often the first—lung sample obtained when a radiologic abnormality is detected and tissue diagnosis is required. When a neoplastic diagnosis cannot be made but pathologic abnormalities are present, it is useful for pathologists to have a list (“menu”) of specific nonneoplastic diagnoses that can be made in these samples. Objective.— To provide surgical pathologists and pathology trainees with menus of nonneoplastic entities that can be diagnosed in small lung biopsies, and to briefly describe and illustrate some of these entities as they appear in small lung biopsies. Data Sources.— Published literature and the authors' experience with small lung biopsies for diagnosis of nonneoplastic lung diseases. Conclusions.— Although sampling error imposes some limitations, core needle biopsies and transbronchial lung biopsies can contribute to the diagnosis of a variety of nonneoplastic lung diseases and reduce the need for invasive surgical intervention.