Case Report: Nebulized platelet-rich plasma facilitates resolution of post-infective pulmonary consolidation and cavitation in a lung cancer survivor

TL;DR

A lung cancer survivor used nebulized platelet-rich plasma to help heal persistent lung damage from pneumonia.

Contribution

This case report explores the novel use of nebulized PRP for resolving post-infective lung consolidation and cavitation.

Findings

Nebulized PRP was associated with rapid resolution of a cavitary lesion in a previously irradiated lung.

The patient experienced no adverse effects from nebulized PRP administration.

Serial CT scans showed complete closure of the cavitary defect after 4 weeks of treatment.

Abstract

Persistent lung consolidation and cavitary lesions are recognized sequelae of severe pneumonia, particularly in patients with prior oncologic or radiation-related lung injury. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains growth factors and cytokines that promote tissue repair and immune modulation, yet its pulmonary application remains largely unexplored.

A woman in her mid-40s with a history of stage IV right-lower-lobe non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in long-term remission developed severe pneumonia while overseas. Six weeks after discharge, a low-dose CT revealed persistent right-upper-lobe consolidation with internal lucency. She administered nebulized autologous PRP for 4 weeks using a compressor-based nebulizer.

Serial CT imaging demonstrated rapid reduction and eventual resolution of the consolidation with closure of a cavitary defect. The patient experienced no bronchial irritation or adverse effects.

Nebulized autologous PRP was temporally associated with radiologic resolution of a post-infective cavitary lesion in a previously irradiated lung. This finding supports further study of PRP's regenerative potential in pulmonary disease.

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