An unusual presentation of bronchial rupture

Respir Care. 2011 Jun;56(6):858-60. doi: 10.4187/respcare.01012. Epub 2011 Feb 11.

Abstract

Persistent hydropneumothorax was diagnosed in a 62-year-old female with a history of blunt trauma, although she was treated with chest tube and closed underwater seal drainage. Computed tomography and fiberoptic bronchoscopy findings were consistent with "fallen lung" syndrome. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy also found a cavitary lesion at the right tracheobronchial angle. Forceps biopsy of the cavitary lesion indicated bronchogenic carcinoma. Our final diagnosis was tracheobronchial complete rupture and fallen lung syndrome secondary to malignancy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bronchi / injuries*
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Chest Tubes
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydropneumothorax / diagnosis*
  • Hydropneumothorax / etiology*
  • Hydropneumothorax / therapy
  • Lung Neoplasms / complications
  • Middle Aged
  • Rupture
  • Thoracic Injuries / complications
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed