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Diagrams depicting the pathology of pulmonary cavity and pneumatocele.
Case Discussion
Pulmonary cavity and pneumatocele - key learning points
- Pulmonary cavity and pneumatocele are gas-filled spaces within the pulmonary parenchyma. Although similiar, they represent different stages of pulmonary tissue repair as well as different causes.
- Pulmonary consolidation, masses or nodules may undergo tissue necrosis. The necrotic debris is drained through the airways leaving a thick-walled gas-filled lesion known as cavity.
- Overtime the walls of the gas-filled lesion become thinner and the shape of the lesion becomes more rounded. The lesion is now denominated pneumatocele.
- Control studies may show resolution of the pneumatocele with normal appearance of the pulmonary parenchyma.
- Pneumatoceles may also arise from trauma or hydrocarbon aspiration.
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