Description
The specimen is a slice taken from the middle and lower lobes of the right lung. There is
pronounced cylindrical bronchiectasis with dilated airways extending almost to the pleural surface.
This is most pronounced in the middle lobe. Several large lymph nodes are seen within the hilar
region. These contain anthracotic pigment and on microscopic examination showed reactive
change.
History
This 46 year-old man had a long history of extensive bilateral bronchiectasis which was
complicated by pulmonary osteoarthropathy. He developed cor pulmonale and required continued
hospitalization with postural drainage and antibiotic therapy. Resection of the right middle and
lower lobes was undertaken in an attempt to control recurrent infections. The patient suffered
profound hypotension post-operatively and died of congestive heart failure.