Giant Pulmonary Bullae: Diagnosis, Complications and Treatment
[1]
Charles Joseph Haddad, Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, University of Florida, Jacksonville, USA.
[2]
Judella Haddad-Lacle, Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, University of Florida, Jacksonville, USA.
This case report outlines a 46-year-old African American patient who presented with cough and decreased exercise tolerance. Chest X-ray revealed a giant pulmonary bullae. Giant Pulmonary Bullae typically occurs in young thin males and is seen most frequently in smokers. Diagnosis is usually confirmed with chest radiograph or chest CT scan. Giant Bullae can be seen in patients with other underlying conditions and it may have a genetic predisposition. Complications include pulmonary hemorrhage, infection, pneumothorax and lung cancer developing in the wall of the giant bullae. Treatment is dependent on the severity of the symptoms with the goals to decrease dyspnea and shortness of breath, improve lung function and improve overall quality of life for the patient. Treatment may include observation, bronchodilators, bullectomy, pleurodesis and one-way valve placement.
Giant Pulmonary Bullae, Vanishing Lung Syndrome, Bullous Emphysema, Bullectomy
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