Simultaneous bilateral spontaneous pneumothoraces in a patient with occupational asthma

Abstract

Spontaneous pneumothoraces are relatively common; however, simultaneous bilateral spontaneous pneumothoraces (SBSP) have rarely been reported. This case report describes the presentation of SBSP in a 60-year-old man with occupational asthma. He was initially started on treatment for life-threatening asthma, but an early deterioration in symptoms prompted an urgent chest radiography that established the diagnosis of bilateral pneumothoraces. This was managed with bilateral needle thoracocentesis followed by stabilisation with intercostal chest drains. He was subsequently referred to the thoracic unit for minithoracotomy, bullectomy and talc pleurodesis. This case highlights the potential difficulties in diagnosing SBSP and advocates the necessity for prompt chest radiography when managing such presentations in the acute setting.