Fibrothorax

Definition

Fibrothorax results from fibrosis of the visceral pleura, and is clinically manifested by decreased respiratory excursion and restrictive pulmonary physiology. There are two distinct mechanisms that can lead to the formation of fibrothorax: 1) Most often, fibrothorax develops as a consequence of pleural inflammation in patients with pleural effusions, including hemothorax, tuberculous effusion, or chronic empyema; 2) Less frequently, fibrothorax results from pulmonary parenchymal disease, and can be seen in patients with tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, or lung abscess.

Index Terms