Pesle G, Triboulet F, Gharbi N, Rojas-Miranda A, Merlier M
Poumon Coeur. 1980 Jan-Feb;36(1):7-11.
Considering 36 observations, the authors show the relative infrequency of pleural aspergillosis localizations by comparison with pulmonary aspergillomas. Twenty four pleural aspergilloses developed on post-operative residual cavities, particularly after pulmonary exeresis and not only for aspergilloma; 11 forms were apparently primitive after therapeutical pneumothorax; 3 anatomo-clinical forms were found, aspergillomas and pyothoraxes were the most frequent. Pleural involvement can be associated to pulmonary, even bronchial involvement. Discovery circulstances vary: 4 times symptomatology was noisy, other times diagnosis was founded on radiological changes or hemoptysis or on the systematic fungal detection. Therapeutical indications are discussed. A major intervencal changes or hemoptysis or on the systematic fungal detection. Therapeutical indications are discussed. A major intervention with a radical aim (pulmonary decortication or pleuro-pneumonectomy) is rarely envisaged (7 times out of 35). Parietopleurectomy and rooting out with thoracoplasty are often the only possible ways or even a simple pleurotomy or a medical treatment with is modalities. Post-operative complications are often serious, particularly acute mycotic outbursts. Out of 35 patients, one was never seen again, 13 died, rather late of cardio-respiratory insufficiency, 21 are still alive but only 13 can truly be considered cured.
