A Case of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma with Pyothorax

Abstract

A 70 year old man, who had recieved artificial pneumothorax for pulmonary tuberculosis in 1947, was admitted because of high fever and productive cough. Pleural fluid was purulent and gram-negative bacilli were detected in it. After serial cleansing of the infected pleural space, bacteria disappeared, but malignant unclassified cell (PAP IV) was discovered from bloody effusion.
On chest X-ray and CT scan, thickening of parietal pleura increased progressively.
By thoracotomy on October 7, 1982, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was diagnosed. He was treated with combination chemotherapy (CHOP). Subsequently he showed good response and his status is favorable.