Successful Assessment and Management of Chemothorax: A Case Report and Literature Review
Articles > Article · 2025
Authors: Hassan Edward Bakali, Batuhan Riza Ecer, Rza Mammadov, Tevfik İlker AKÇAM
Cureus, International, 2025, vol 17, pp e86595-e86595
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.86595
Summary
Chemothorax is a rare complication associated with central venous catheters, caused by the inadvertent infusion of chemotherapy into the pleural space due to catheter malposition. Malignant pleural effusion is a common suspect in oncologic patients; however, alternative causes, such as chemothorax, should also be considered. Few cases have been reported, emphasizing the need for careful catheter placement and early recognition of complications to prevent adverse outcomes. The risk of this complication underlines the need for meticulous catheter placement, routine radiologic verification, and prompt management to prevent serious outcomes in affected patients.