Asymptomatic esophago-pleural fistula presenting 35 years after pneumonectomy for tuberculosis

J Thorac Imaging. 2005 Aug;20(3):223-5. doi: 10.1097/01.rti.0000155043.74533.79.

Abstract

Postpneumonectomy esophago-pleural fistula (EPF) is rare and potentially life-threatening. It is mainly caused by surgical injury, local cancer recurrence, and chronic inflammation or infection. Patients with postpneumonectomy EPF usually present with empyema. We report a case of a clinically asymptomatic esophago-pleural fistula, diagnosed accidentally in a 64-year-old woman more than 30 years after right lobe pneumonectomy due to tuberculosis. Contrast-enhanced CT, chest radiography, and esophagogramm were the imaging modalities used together with esophagoscopy in diagnosing the EPF; however, contrast-enhanced CT in combination with oral given contrast-media is the first imaging technique of choice to evaluate esophago-pleural fistula.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Esophageal Fistula / diagnostic imaging
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology*
  • Esophageal Fistula / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Pleural Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Pleural Diseases / etiology*
  • Pleural Diseases / surgery
  • Pneumonectomy / adverse effects*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Tuberculosis, Pulmonary / surgery

Substances

  • Contrast Media