Tracheal lipoma: A rare intrathoracic neoplasm

Primary tracheal lipomas are extremely rare neoplasms. The typical patient is a middle-aged man with complaints of cough and shortness of breath. Ofte n, the diagnosis is delayed, and patients are treated for asthma or bronchi tis. The diagnosis of a tracheal lipoma is best approached by computed tomo graphy (CT) and bronchofibroscopy. Tracheobronchial lipomas may be successf ully excised endoscopically or by laser therapy, Open surgical resection is required when the lipoma extends extraluminally.