Spontaneous pneumothorax from cryptococcal pneumonia in systemic sclerosis: a case report
2011

Spontaneous pneumothorax from cryptococcal pneumonia in systemic sclerosis: a case report

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Sripavatakul Kwanreuthai, Foocharoen Chingching

Primary Institution: Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand

Hypothesis

Can cryptococcal pneumonia trigger spontaneous pneumothorax in patients with systemic sclerosis?

Conclusion

Infection can exacerbate symptoms in patients with systemic sclerosis with sub-pleural emphysema, thereby triggering a spontaneous pneumothorax.

Supporting Evidence

  • Pleural fluid analysis revealed cryptococcal infection.
  • The patient had a history of systemic sclerosis with pulmonary complications.
  • Symptoms improved significantly after treatment.

Takeaway

A man with a lung infection got a collapsed lung because of his other health problems. After treatment, he got better.

Methodology

The patient was treated with intercostal drainage and fluconazole therapy after diagnosis.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

49-year-old Thai male with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1752-1947-5-309

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