Massive Hemothorax in a Beta-Thalassemic Patient Due to Spontaneous Rupture of Extramedullary Hematopoietic Masses: Diagnosis and Successful Treatment

Abstract

Intrathoracic extramedullary hematopoiesis is an unusual but well-described entity. The condition is typically found in patients who have chronic hemolytic anemias, especially thalassemia. We report a case of a 38-year-old man with underlying beta thalassemia/hemoglobin E who developed intrathoracic extramedullary hematopoiesis. The hematopoietic masses spontaneously ruptured, resulting in massive hemothorax. The condition was confirmed by video-assisted thoracoscopy and successfully treated with surgery, hydroxyurea, and radiation.