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Severe centrilobular emphysema

Case contributed by Mohammad Farghali Ali Tosson
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Smoker with shortness of breath.

Patient Data

Age: 85 years
Gender: Male

The right lung parenchyma as well as the left lower lung lobe are replaced by multiple innumerable air-filled cavities denoting severe centrilobular emphysema, this is associated with:

  • a large left pleural effusion and pneumothorax with subsequent consolidation and collapse of the left upper lung lobe

  • small right pleural effusion

Case Discussion

These findings are consistent with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complicated by a hydro-pneumothorax which is likely secondary to spontaneous bulla rupture.

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