Fibrothorax

Case contributed by David Cuete
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

History of pleural tuberculosis many years ago.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male
ct

Scout shows extensive right pleural thickening and calcification, and volume loss of the right hemithorax.
CT shows extensive right pleural thickening and calcification with associated marked volume loss. The pleural thickening does not involve the mediastinal pleura.

Case Discussion

Fibrothorax is the most severe form of pleural fibrosis, with extensive and dense fibrosis of the visceral pleura leading to fusion of the visceral and parietal pleura. Fibrothorax results in contracture of the involved hemithorax and reduced mobility of the lung (lung entrapment). Common causes include hemothorax, empyema, asbestos exposure, mesothelioma and tuberculosis.

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