Recurrent hydropneumothorax as a presenting feature of malignant mesothelioma

The European Journal of Internal Medicine. 2008 Jan;19(1):63-4. Epub 2007 Jul 23. [Link]

Guha K, Jones D, Hull JH, Ho TB.

Department of Respiratory Medicine, Knight Centre for Cystic Fibrosis, Frimley Park Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Camberley, Surrey GU16 7UJ, UK.

Abstract

A 73-year-old former smoker with previous occupational exposure to asbestos presented with a pneumothorax that was initially managed by simple aspiration. Despite this, it re-accumulated and a bronchopleural fistula was suspected. A video-assisted thoracoscopic procedure was performed and revealed an abnormally thickened pleura that turned out to be a mesothelioma. All persistent pneumothoraces should be investigated.