Destroyed Lung Syndrome: A Review of 31 Published Cases

Abstract

Background: Destroyed lung is a lung condition commonly caused by tuberculosis. Other causes include bronchiectasis, aspergilloma, emphysema, etc. It is characterized by extensive lung destruction and reduced lung function. Chest X-ray, chest CT, bronchography, and ventilation-perfusion ratio scan are the commonest radiologic diagnostic tools. Treatment of choice may include pneumonectomy. The study aims to highlight the common causes of destroyed lung and the major presenting complaints based on age, sex and affected lungs. Method: Published cases from English medical journals were evaluated and analyzed. Results: 31 published cases on destroyed lung were reviewed. 58.1% showed that the left lung was the most commonly affected lung. The condition was more common in males (71%). Based on our review, the commonest causes are pneumonia and tuberculosis at 25.9% and 22.8%, respectively. Conclusion: Pneumonia and Tuberculosis seem to be the commonest causes of destroyed lung based on our review, with left sided affectation being more predominant.