Chronic myeloid leukemia initially presenting with spontaneous mediastinal hematoma and hemothorax

Spontaneous mediastinal hematoma is rarely seen in hematologic malignancy. We report a case of chronic myeloid leukemia initially presenting with spontaneous hematoma and hemothorax. In addition to a detailed history, computerized tomography of the chest is important in analyzing whether an anterior mediastinal mass lesion is present. Magnetic resonance imaging is helpful in confirming the nature of a mediastinal hematoma. Trauma, vascular disease and coagulopathy should first be ruled out when making a diagnosis of spontaneous bleeding in the thorax. In our patient, the mediastinal hematoma regressed spontaneously after three months. Leukemia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of spontaneous mediastinal hematoma. In leukemia patients with spontaneous mediastinal hematoma, supportive observation and close follow-up may be better than surgery, unless massive hemorrhage or active bleeding in the thorax is suspected.