Risk and Prevention of Infections in the Bronchoscopy Room

Abstract

Bronchoscopy is a widely used diagnostic and therapeutic procedure in pulmonary medicine, with increasing utilization as technology advances. However, it is also associated with a risk of infection, which may negatively impact patient outcomes, particularly in individuals with underlying lung disease or immunocompromised conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that endoscopic procedures, including bronchoscopy, are among the most frequently implicated medical devices in healthcare-associated outbreaks. Post-bronchoscopy infections, although relatively uncommon (0.2–5.2%), may lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, lung abscess, and empyema. These infections can originate from endogenous respiratory flora or from exogenous contamination related to inadequate bronchoscope reprocessing. This narrative review aims to summarize current evidence on infection risks, sources of transmission, and preventive strategies in the bronchoscopy setting, including occupational risks to healthcare workers. Strengthening infection control practices is essential to improve patient safety and reduce the risk of transmission in bronchoscopy units.