Re-expansion pulmonary edema (RPE) is a rare but
potentially hazardous complication following evacuation of the pleural region.
Symptomatic RPE occurs in less than 1% of patients after pleural drainage.
Early diagnosis and treatment determines the progression of the disease and it
is life-saving. The present case describes a 68-year-old man who developed RPE
with the ipsilateral collapsed lung 6 hours after pleural drainage of a
non-malignant effusion. He was intubated and 6 hours after aggressive treatment
with mechanical ventilation support oxygenation was improved and the patient's
blood gas analysis recovered. Over the course of his 12-day hospitalization, he
was extubated and oxygen support was slowly weaned down. Mortality rate of RPE
in severe cases is approximately
20%, therefore preventive interventions gain importance. In spite of the rare
incidence of RPE, being aware of this potential condition can allow for early
and proper management.
Primary Language | English |
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Subjects | Health Care Administration |
Journal Section | Case Reports |
Authors | |
Publication Date | July 4, 2018 |
Submission Date | January 1, 2018 |
Acceptance Date | February 2, 2018 |
Published in Issue | Year 2018 Volume: 4 Issue: 3 |