Transbronchial Needle Aspiration Cytology and Purulent Pericarditis

Authors

Srilakshmi Vallabhaneni, St. Luke’s University Health Network, Bethlehem, PA, USA
Asim Kichloo, Central Michigan University, Saginaw, MI, USA
Amir Rawan, Central Michigan University, Saginaw, MI, USA
Michael Aljadah, Central Michigan University, Saginaw, MI, USA
Michael Albosta, Central Michigan University, Saginaw, MI, USA
Jagmeet Singh, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA, USA
Christopher Cutitta, St. Luke’s University Health Network, Bethlehem, PA, USA

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Endobronchial ultrasound with transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) is commonly performed for the evaluation of mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Purulent pericarditis is a rare, yet potentially fatal complication of TBNA. It commonly presents with nonspecific symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or vague abdominal discomfort. Additionally, more severe symptoms such as cardiac tamponade and even death have been reported. In this article, we present the case of a 58-year-old male who developed purulent pericardial effusion with tamponade thought to be caused by TBNA cytology. This case raises an important question regarding the current guidelines for prophylactic antibiotic treatment for patients at high risk of developing purulent pericarditis as a complication of TBNA.

DOI

10.1177/2324709620951345

Publication Date

8-25-2020

Recommended Citation

Vallabhaneni S, Kichloo A, Rawan A, Aljadah M, Albosta M, Singh J, Cutitta C. Transbronchial needle aspiration cytology and purulent pericarditis. Journal of Investigative Medicine High Impact Case Reports. 2020 Aug;8:2324709620951345.