Exploring the potential of cell-free tumor DNA in bronchoscopic diagnosis of peripheral lung lesions-the DRILL study.

Background: Small lung lesions can represent early-stage lung cancer but are difficult to diagnose. The bronchoscopic approach has the lowest risk of complications; however, the diagnostic yield is generally lower compared to trans-thoracic biopsies. Cell-free tumor DNA (cftDNA) is fragmented DNA stemming from a tumor.

Endobronchial Ultrasound for the Screening of Pulmonary Embolism in Patients with Suspected Lung Cancer: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Background: Patients with lung cancer exhibit increased risk of pulmonary embolism (PE). While the contrast phase of computed tomography of the chest in the diagnostic work-up of suspected chest malignancy does not allow reliable detection of PE, it may be feasible to screen for present PE during endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) examination.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to establish if screening during EBUS for PE in patients with suspected lung cancer is feasible and if positive findings are predictive of PE.