A Rare Presentation of Swyer-James-Macleod Syndrome in the Elderly

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Radiology
• Pediatric Respiratory Diseases

Background:

• Swyer-James-MacLeod syndrome (SJMS), or hyperlucent lung syndrome, arises from infectious bronchiolitis obliterans.
• It involves lung inflammation and fibrosis, causing ventilation-perfusion mismatch and underdeveloped lung segments.
• SJMS is often diagnosed by characteristic unilateral small lung with hyperlucency on chest X-rays.

Observation:

• This study presents imaging findings in an elderly patient diagnosed with SJMS.
• The case highlights the diagnostic utility of chest radiography and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in identifying SJMS features.
• Detailed imaging analysis is crucial for understanding the extent of lung underdevelopment and associated abnormalities.

Findings:

• The primary diagnostic indicators observed were unilateral lung hypoplasia and significant hyperlucency on imaging.
• HRCT scans provided detailed anatomical information, revealing the extent of bronchial and vascular abnormalities.
• Imaging confirmed the characteristic features of Swyer-James-MacLeod syndrome, including post-infectious inflammatory changes.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis of SJMS through advanced imaging is essential for appropriate patient management.
• Understanding the imaging spectrum of SJMS aids in differentiating it from other lung conditions.
• This case contributes to the literature on SJMS, particularly in adult populations, emphasizing the importance of recognizing its imaging hallmarks.