Spontaneous Pneumothorax as a Complication in Concomitant Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Pulmonary Tuberculosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (SSP) can occur as a complication of several underlying diseases such as pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) or, rarely, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). As diabetes mellitus (DM) is significantly prevalent in tuberculosis patients, it is possible to have both TB and DKA concurrently. However, there has not been any documentation of SSP as a complication in concomitant DKA and pulmonary TB. In this report, we described a 30-year-old female who presented to the emergency department with a chief complaint of shortness of breath that had intensified since a day before. She was diagnosed with pulmonary TB 1 week before and had started on her anti-tuberculosis drugs regimen. Prior history of DM was not known. Physical examination showed a slight decrease in consciousness, tachycardia, tachypnea, Kussmaul breathing, decreased lung sounds in the right hemithorax and hyperresonant on percussion. Laboratory results showed leukocytosis and hyperglycemia, ketones were positive on urinalysis and arterial blood gas analysis indicated metabolic acidosis. Chest X-ray revealed pneumothorax in the right hemithorax. She was diagnosed with pneumothorax of the right hemithorax, DKA, sepsis and pulmonary TB. Treatment involved prompt placement of chest tube drainage, fluid rehydration, intravenous insulin, antibiotic, sodium bicarbonate and anti-tuberculosis drugs. Her condition improved after 9 days of uneventful hospitalization. We discussed how concomitant presence of both DKA and pulmonary TB can increase the likelihood of developing secondary spontaneous pneumothorax.