Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Robotic-assisted Left Pneumonectomy For Vanishing Lung Syndrome
Published on: January 23, 2026
Regression of giant bullous emphysema
Hye Yun Park1, Seong Yong Lim, Hye Kyeong Park
1Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Abstract:
Spontaneous resolution of bulla associated with infection or tumor is occasionally observed. However, resolution of progressively enlarging giant bullous emphysema (GBE) after medical therapy has not been reported. A 51-year-old man smoker with GBE on the right lung was referred to Samsung Medical Center for the consideration of bullectomy. A review of his medical records revealed that right-side bullous emphysema had been detected 4 years previously and it had progressively enlarged with a concomitant deterioration of lung function. Although he had a history of chronic asthma, he had never been treated on a regular basis. After combination therapy, including regular tiopropium, a salmeterol/flucatisone inhaler, a salbutamol inhaler as needed, and oral theophylline therapy, right side bulla showed marked regression. This regression of bulla was associated with an improved forced expiratory volume in one second and normalization of residual volume. This case serves as a reminder to clinicians that medical treatment for underlying diseases should precede surgical consideration in patients with GBE.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease II: Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease IV: Clinical Manifestations
Pulmonary Tuberculosis II
Here is a detailed explanation of its pathophysiology:
Transmission: The process begins when a person inhales droplet nuclei containing M. tuberculosis. These are typically released into the air when an individual with pulmonary or...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease I: Introduction
