Case Report

Lack of Mediastinal Shift as a Clue to Delayed Postpneumonectomy Empyema

Authors: BOAZ HIRSHBERG, MD, MICHAEL Y. SHAPIRA, MD, ISRAEL GRINBLAT, MD, LARISA SHUSTIN, MD, YOSEPH CARACO, MD

Abstract

Delayed postpneumonectomy empyema is uncommon. The condition is usually elusive and diagnosed late in the course of the disease, leading to increased morbidity. New air-fluid level on chest x-ray film or appearance of empyema necessitatis may enhance the index of suspicion and lead to early diagnosis, but in many cases no clinical or laboratory clues are apparent.

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References