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Acute respiratory distress secondary to Morgagni diaphragmatic herniation in an adult

N A Wong1, C M Dayan, J Virjee

  • 1Bristol Royal Infirmary, UK.

Postgraduate Medical Journal
|January 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Morgagni hernias in adults can cause acute respiratory distress, contrary to common belief. Surgical repair relieved symptoms, highlighting the need for caution in diagnosing these hernias.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pulmonology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Morgagni hernias are typically asymptomatic in adults.
  • This assumption can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

  • A chronic schizophrenic man presented with acute respiratory distress.
  • Radiological evidence revealed an acutely expanding Morgagni hernia.

Findings:

  • The patient's symptoms were attributed to the Morgagni hernia.
  • Surgical repair successfully relieved the patient's respiratory distress.

Implications:

  • Morgagni hernias in adults may not always be long-standing or clinically insignificant.
  • Clinicians should consider Morgagni hernias in the differential diagnosis of acute respiratory distress in adults.
  • Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.

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