Fiberoptic bronchoscopy in bronchial asthma. A word of caution.

Three instances of intense laryngospasm and bronchospasm occurred as a result of fiberoptic bronchoscopic examination in three patients with quiescent bronchial asthma. The indications for the procedure were hemoptysis in one patient and lobar collapse in two. It is likely that vagally mediated reflex laryngospasm and bronchoconstriction occur when irritant receptors are mechanically stimulated by the bronchoscope. Therefore, in the asthmatic population with its increased airway reactivity, indications for fiberoptic bronchoscopy should be absolute, and the procedure should be performed under optimal conditions. A rationale for minimizing the risk of this procedure in patients with bronchial asthma is discussed.