Pulmonary carcinoid tumor of endobronchial presentation: a case report

Lung carcinoid tumors account for 1-2% of malignant lung neoplasms. Early diagnosis is crucial, and surgery at an early stage may improve the clinical picture and may even be a curative option. We present a 78-year-old woman with a history of poorly controlled arterial hypertension, anxious syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and paroxysmal palpitations for the last two years. Radiologic imaging showed a left hilar nodular lesion causing endobronchial obstruction in the left lower lobe. Anatomopathology revealed a low-grade pulmonary neuroendocrine tumor, and pulmonary resection with nodal staging was promptly considered. The diagnosis of pulmonary carcinoid tumor is challenging; therefore, it is necessary to maintain suspicion in patients with non-specific and/or persistent respiratory symptoms, and complete resection and prolonged close follow-up should be considered despite a satisfactory postoperative course.