The importance of diagnosis of latent bronchopleural fistula in a child with empyema thoracis for thoracotomy

Abstract

Empyema thoracis is an accumulation of frank pus in the pleural space. Occurrence of complications such as bronchopleural fistula (BPF) following necrotizing pneumonia is not uncommon in pediatric patients. Failure to diagnose latent BPF is common. High level of suspicion and preventive measures to avoid likely complications is the key to success. This case report underscores the need to diagnose a latent BPF and also highlights the importance of one lung ventilation in an infant in suspected cases of BPF.

Keywords

• Bronchopleural
• fistula
• latent
• ventilation