OBJECTIVE: To evaluate methods of diagnosis and treatment, and the long term survival of patients treated for bronchial carcinoid tumor by the review of recent literature. METHODS: The Authors conducted a retrospective study on internet-based-evidence of patients treated for bronchial carcinoid tumor since 1993 to 2004. Symptoms, diagnosis, operative approach and survival were assessed. CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of the review of the international literature, the Authors affirm that the 5 and 10-year probability of survival are closely linked to the histological type of carcinoid, to the presence of nodal and distant metastasis. Owing to the potential malignancy of these tumours, preference should be given to radical exeresis.