# A Case of Inadequately Treated Bacterial Pneumonia Leading to Bronchopleural Fistula

## TL;DR

A man with untreated bacterial pneumonia developed a serious lung condition requiring surgery, highlighting the need for early detection.

## Contribution

This case report emphasizes the importance of early recognition of bronchopleural fistulas in patients with severe infections.

## Key findings

- Untreated bacterial pneumonia can lead to bilateral pneumothoraces and Pseudomonas/Aspergillus empyema.
- A bronchopleural fistula developed requiring video-assisted thoracic surgery.
- Early recognition of BPF is critical to prevent severe complications.

## Abstract

Bronchopulmonary fistula (BPF) is an abnormal connection between the pleural space and bronchial tree, potentially leading to fatal outcomes if untreated. While BPF commonly arises following lung surgery, it can also be linked to infections. This report details the case of a 47-year-old male with recent untreated bacterial pneumonia, who developed bilateral pneumothoraces with persistent air leaks, Pseudomonas and Aspergillus empyema, culminating in a right-sided BPF necessitating video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) decortication. The agenda of this presentation is to enhance early recognition of BPF, which can be presented subtly, to avert severe complications.