What is bronchiolithiasis?

Bronchiolithiasis is a rare respiratory condition characterized by the presence of calcified material, or bronchioliths, within the bronchi, which are the air passages that lead from the trachea to the lungs. These calcifications can arise from various causes, including infections, chronic inflammation, or the presence of other foreign materials. Symptoms may include chronic cough, difficulty breathing, and recurrent lung infections. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, and treatment may include addressing the underlying cause and, in some cases, surgical removal of the calcified material.