Standard classification of autofluorescence bronchoscopy findings

Autofluorescence bronchoscopy (AFB) has emerged as a new modality for the detection of preinvasive and early malignant lesions in the central airways. With the advances in technology, fiberoptic bronchoscope has been replaced by the bronchovideoscope which enables a more accurate observation of the airway. The new generation AFB is also a bronchovideoscope with improved image and operability. AFB is applicable not only for screening of high risk patients for the detection of pre-invasive lesions, but also for localizing tumors before photodynamic therapy (PDT) and operation. There has been a growing need for a standard classification of AFB findings based on different pathological findings. In this report, we sought to standardize the AFB findings according to the different types of AFB commercially available.