Pulmonary Cysts (Lungenzysten)

General information:

• Lesion develops between the 6th and 16th week of gestation. In contratst to the central (bronchogenic) cyst, they may be multiple and extensive.
  
• Bronchial communication is more common.
  
• Differential diagnosis includes CCAM, congenital lobar emphysema, pneumothorax (sharp costophrenic angle) or congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
  

Symptoms:

• Respiratory distress shortly after birth.

Diagnostic workout:

• Plain chest X-ray, CT scan.

Indication for operation:

• Clear indication for resection.

Treatment/Operation:

• Thoracotomy, segmentectomy or lobectomy.

Postoperative management:

• Chest tubes may be removed if the lung is fully expanded and drainage volumes decrease below 20 to 50cc during a 24 hour period.
  

Prognosis:

• Good.