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. 2012;3(9):415-6.
doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2012.05.006. Epub 2012 May 22.

A case of thoracolithiasis diagnosed thoracoscopically

Teruya Komatsu  1 , Terumasa Sowa, Takuji Fujinaga
Affiliations

A case of thoracolithiasis diagnosed thoracoscopically

Teruya Komatsu et al. Int J Surg Case Rep. 2012.

Abstract

Introduction: Thoracolithiasis is quite rare with only 18 cases reported in the literature.

Presentation of case: The 65-year-old female was referred to us for the abnormality on the chest X-ray. The serial computed tomographic (CT) scans showed a mobile calcified nodule of about 10mm in diameter. Exploratory thoracoscopy was performed. A 15mm pearl-like pleural stone was removed with uneventful postoperative course.

Discussion: Thoracolithiasis is very rare, and its etiology as well as its epidemiology still remains to be unclear. Preoperative diagnosis is always difficult. However, specific radiological findings could let us recognize the probability of that lesion and avoid unnecessary major operation.

Conclusion: Thoracolithiasis should never be overlooked as a differential diagnosis in a pulmonary calcified nodule.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The serial CT scan shows a mobile calcified nodule in the left thoracic cavity.
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Macroscopic findings of the removed stone. The yellowish core surrounded by the shiny white capsule.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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