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[Thoracoscopically removed thoracolithiasis]
K Kataoka1, T Nishikawa, T Fujiwara
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hiroshima City Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan.
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|November 12, 2010
Summary
Thoracolithiasis, a rare pleural condition, involves calcified nodules. This report details a successful thoracoscopic removal of an 11mm thoracolith in a 62-year-old male patient.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pathology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Thoracolithiasis is an exceptionally rare condition characterized by calcified nodules within the thoracic cavity.
- Surgical intervention for thoracolithiasis is infrequently reported, with limited cases documented globally.
Observation:
- A routine health examination identified an abnormal shadow in a 62-year-old male patient.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed an 11 mm round, calcified mass in the left thorax, adjacent to the diaphragm.
Findings:
- Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) successfully removed a free-floating, 11 mm white nodule from the left pleural cavity.
- Pathological examination confirmed the nodule as thoracolithiasis, consisting of central necrotic fat tissue surrounded by hyalinized fibrous tissue.
Implications:
- This case expands the literature on thoracolithiasis, particularly highlighting minimally invasive surgical approaches.
- The successful VATS removal underscores its efficacy for treating rare thoracic nodules.
- Further research may elucidate the etiology and optimal management strategies for thoracolithiasis.
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