Catamenial pneumothorax with diaphragmatic endometriosis: a case report

Abstract

A 30-year-old female had twice experienced right pneumothorax within 2 months that was related to the onset of menstruation, suggesting catamenial pneumothorax. Right thoracoscopy revealed the presence of "blue berry spots" and pinhole at the lateral part of central tendon in the diaphragm. No bulla or bleb was found on the right lung. Partial resection of the diaphragm including these lesions was performed under small thoracotomy assisted by thoracoscopy. Histological findings showed endometriosis of the diaphragm. She was followed without hormonal therapy, but recurrent right pneumothorax occurred. Therefore she was given leuprorelin acetate for 5 months, and she is asymptomatic 7 months after surgery.