CASE REPORT OF A 17-YEAR-OLD MALE WITH BRONCHIAL TUMOR (CARCINOID)

Introduction: The incidence of pulmonary carcinoids has increased in recent decades. Although most commonly diagnosed in adults, pulmonary carcinoids can also occur in children. Detection typically occurs through chest X-ray, with diagnosis confirmed by CT, bronchoscopy, and histopathological analysis. Surgery is the primary treatment, and before metastasis occurs, it is generally curative. Prognosis depends on the tumor type, disease stage, and presence of metastasis. Case outline: A 17-year-old adolescent was hospitalized for pneumonia. Following treatment, clinical improvement was observed, and a follow-up radiography showed regression of the changes. One month after discharge, the patient returned with progression of symptoms, leading to second hospitalization. Chest CT scan and bronchoscopy revealed a mass completely occluding the left main bronchus. Histological analysis of the biopsy confirmed a carcinoid tumor and left upper lobectomy was performed. Conclusion: Pulmonary carcinoid tumors present a challenge in clinical practice due to their nonspecific clinical course. Our case emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach and early detection of the tumor, which is crucial for better prognosis.