Chronic calcified empyema

Three patients with chronic calcified "fibrothorax" and complicating empyema are reported. The so-called chronic "fibrothorax" may envelop a fluid-filled cavity. Reactivation or reinfection can occur after a very long latent period. When this occurs, it is often associated with either a bronchopleural or a pleurocutaneous fistula. Contrary to often quoted opinion, the calcification a fibrothorax is found on the parietal as well as visceral pleura.