[A case of adenocarcinoma presenting as a cavitary lesion with niveau formation]

Primary pulmonary adenocarcinoma rarely shows cavitation with a fluid level on chest roentgenograms. Herein we describe such a case misdiagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis. The patient was a 63-year-old, female who had never smoked. Chest roentgenograms revealed a cavitary lesion in the left lower lobe, possessing a prominent fluid level. Fiberoptic bronchoscopic aspirate was positive for acid-fast bacilli on stains. Since there was no improvement with antituberculous chemotherapy, a left lower lobectomy was performed. The present case is of interest in the light of cavity formation in pulmonary carcinoma. The diagnosis and roentgenographic features are discussed.