Fatal hemoptysis: aortobronchial fistula as a preventable cause of death.
Hemoptysis as a result of leaking aortic aneurysms occurs rarely and has a high fatality rate. A case of chronic hemoptysis resulting from an aortobronchial fistula in a patient with an aortic prosthesis is reported. Hemoptysis, even when chronic, should prompt investigation of the possibility of a leaking graft in patients with prosthetic aortic grafts. Chest x-ray and bronchoscopy usually yield nonspecific findings. Aortography may demonstrate an aortic aneurysm and is the preferred diagnostic procedure; however, an aggressive surgical approach is often necessary.
Wheeler
A P
AP
Division of Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care, Vanderbilt University Hospital, Nashville, TN 37232.
Loyd
J E
JE
D000328:Adult; D001018:Aortic Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D001983:Bronchial Fistula / Q000150:complications*; D002423:Cause of Death; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005402:Fistula / Q000150:complications*; D006469:Hemoptysis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011475:Prosthesis Failure; D011859:Radiography