Abstract
Two cases are reported of so-called “Vanishing tumor of the lung” (loculated interlobar pleural effusion secondary to congestive heart failure).
Loculated interlobar collection of fluid is relatively rare, and the pathogenesis of this localization is as yet notentirely elucidated. It has been discussed that the pleural adhesion (obliterative pleuritis) is one of the important factors. We agree with this view from our clinical experience.
Autopsy of these two cases disclosed that the obliteration of the general pleural cavity by adhesion, the requisite condition by Stewart, is not necessarily a prerequisite for the occurence of loculated effusion. It is the opinion of us that the only requirement of this condition is adhesive process in the peripheral portion of the interlobar fissure with free central interlobar space.
