[Spontaneous lung torsion after acute pleuropneumonia]

We report on a case of spontaneous torsion of the right lung in a 59 years old woman which occurred after an acute pneumonia followed by chronic empyema and progressive dyspnea with marked respiratory disability. Despite extensive diagnostic procedures including bronchoscopy and bronchography the true diagnosis could be established only by thoracotomy performed in order to cure the chronic empyema. The abnormal hilar rigidity by preexisting calcified sarcoidosis of the lymph-nodes is suggested to be a major risk factor for developing lung torsion as it has been emphasized in a few similar reports from the literature. Surgical reposition of the displaced lung is the most effective treatment and can save and restitute lung structure and function even in patients with prolonged course and delayed diagnosis.