Spontaneous Hemothorax Caused by a Ruptured Atypical Carcinoid Tumor: A Very Rare Case

Abstract

Neoplasm is one of the primary causes of spontaneous hemothorax. When spontaneous hemothorax is present, it is essential to detect the surgically corrective cause in order to successfully control this life-threatening condition. Undergoing an imaging evaluation, such as by enhanced computed tomography (CT), is especially important in a patient with spontaneous hemothorax. Herein, we report on a case of spontaneous hemothorax that was caused by a ruptured atypical carcinoid tumor in the right lower lobe. This hypervascular and peripherally located tumor was initially missed by both an unenhanced and enhanced chest CT because intra-tumoral bleeding and the hypervascular nature of this tumor caused similar high density when compared to the loculated hemothorax along the right major fissure and the surrounding atelectatic lung. Consequently, the tumor was obscured by the massive hemothorax and surrounding atelectatic lung on the initial chest CT. However, a second chest CT taken after tube drainage of the massive hemothorax informed the correct diagnosis.