A bronchocele is bronchial dilatation due to retained secretions (mucoid impaction) usually caused by proximal obstruction, either congenital (eg, bronchial atresia) or acquired (eg, obstructing cancer). A bronchocele is a tubular or branching Y-or V-shaped structure that may resemble a gloved finger. The CT attenuation of the mucus is generally that of soft tissue but may be modified by its composition (eg, high-attenuation material in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis). In the case of bronchial atresia, the surrounding lung may be of decreased attenuation because of reduced ventilation and, thus, perfusion. [from
HPO]