Bronchoscopy with Bronchoalveolar Lavage

Definition

A procedure in which cells are taken from the inside of the airways that lead to the lungs. A bronchoscope is inserted through the nose or mouth into the lungs. A mild salt solution is washed over the surface of the airways to collect cells, which are then looked at under a microscope. Bronchial washing is used to find infections. It may also help find cancer or changes in cells that may lead to cancer.

Also known as bronchial washing, Bronchoscopy with Bronchoalveolar Lavage, Bronchoscopy/Lavage — per NCIT

Also identified as

• UMLS C0189395 per NCIT

Anatomy