A 62-year-old woman was admitted due to chest X-ray abnormality. A physical examination was unremarkable. A chest radiogram revealed right hilar lymph node enlargement (Picture 1). On contrast chest computed tomography (CT), tortuosity of the bronchial artery was found (Picture 2, 3). The patient was diagnosed with racemose hemangioma of the bronchial artery. When abnormalities in the hilar lesion are noted, contrast chest CT can provide important clinical information, as seen in this case. On contrast CT, hilar and mediastinal lymph node enlargement can be distinguished. This modality also provides information on whether or not a bronchoscopic biopsy is possible. If extending and meandering bronchial arteries are confirmed on CT, as in the present case, physicians should not perform an endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration biopsy. Although rare, some cases with an enlarged hilar shadow have racemose hemangioma of the bronchial artery (1,2).
Picture 1.
Picture 2.
Picture 3.
The authors state that they have no Conflict of Interest (COI).
References
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