Kosin Medical Journal (고신대학교 의과대학 학술지)

Kosin University College of Medicine (고신대학교 의과대학)
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Complete resolution of the giant pulmonary bulla: a case of inflammatory autobullectomy

  • Park, Sungrock (Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine) ;
  • Shi, Hyejin (Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine) ;
  • Wang, Sungho (Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine) ;
  • Lee, Sangki (Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine) ;
  • Ko, Yousang (Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine) ;
  • Park, Yong Bum (Department of Internal Medicine, Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital, Hallym University College of Medicine)
  • Received : 2016.06.07
  • Accepted : 2016.09.18
  • Published : 2018.12.31
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Abstract

Giant pulmonary bulla (GPB) is a rare manifestation of emphysema and usually enlarges gradually over time, occasionally resulting in complications. Hence, more often than not, the surgical intervention of a Bullectomy is the standard method of treatment for GPB. However, there are case reports that show the complete resolution of GPB after its inflammation process even without surgical intervention. A 51-year-old man was admitted to our clinic due to pleuritic pain. After a chest X-ray and CT scan, a new air-fluid level within the GPB was revealed in the right upper lobe of his lung. His clinical status had improved promptly with intravenous antibiotics. A one-year follow-up study showed the GPB was completely resolved.

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References

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