Presentation
Tuberculosis seven years ago and breathlessness
Patient Data
There is evidence of subtle fibrotic change as the infection resolved (cf. scar formation) with a pus-filled cavity with surrounding peripheral calcification which appears as a dense area on the chest radiograph in the right hemithorax with depleted right lung volume. There are also multiple linear calcifications in the left lower lung.
Case Discussion
Non-contrast CT done in our institute showed a collection inside the cavity. The collection was drained and the patient started on appropriate medication.
Fibrothorax is defined as a sequela of intense pleural inflammation, causing pleural thickening and fibrosis. It occurs most often as a complication of empyema and hemothorax, but can also be seen in pulmonary tuberculosis, as in our case. Other causes include connective tissue diseases, uremia, paragonimiasis, radiation therapy, asbestosis. It is diagnosed by imaging. Treatment may be pharmacological or surgical with decortication.
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