Chest
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Local anesthetic (medical) thoracoscopy is used with increasing frequency by pulmonologists worldwide for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, notably in comorbid patients who may not be physiologically robust enough for general anesthesia. Understanding the complications that can arise and how to manage them is crucial for any physician performing this procedure. ⋯ This case provides an opportunity for an overview of what is known about this unusual but potentially fatal condition. Data correlating ultrasonographic, radiographic, and clinical progression are also presented to highlight the potential usefulness of ultrasonography in identifying lung parenchymal abnormalities such as extravascular lung water.
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A 25-year-old black man presented with left-sided chest pain and cough for 3 days. His pain was pressure-like and nonradiating and was aggravated with movement and relieved when the patient lay at a 45° angle. ⋯ He had no chronic medical conditions and was not taking medications. He had no known exposure to chemicals, fumes, or dust and no history of tobacco or alcohol abuse.