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[Post-traumatic pulmonary hematomas. Apropos of 2 cases]
B Melloni1, A Vergnenegre, F Bonnaud
1Service de pathologie respiratoire, Hôpital du Cluzeau, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Limoges.
Revue Des Maladies Respiratoires
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Post-traumatic pulmonary hematoma, a lung cavity filled with blood after injury, often presents with coughing up blood. This condition typically resolves on its own over weeks without intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Radiology
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Post-traumatic pulmonary hematoma is a collection of blood within the lung parenchyma following injury.
- Its incidence may be underestimated due to associated traumatic lesions.
Observation:
- The most common clinical presentation is hemoptysis (coughing up blood).
- Radiographic findings on chest X-ray and CT scans reveal a well-defined, round opacity.
Findings:
- Pulmonary hematomas generally show a favorable prognosis.
- Complete resolution occurs gradually over several weeks.
- The lung parenchyma integrity is restored post-resorption.
Implications:
- Simple observation is the recommended management strategy.
- Active therapeutic intervention is typically unnecessary.
- Understanding the natural history aids in appropriate clinical decision-making.