Colopleurocutaneous fistula associated with empyema as a late complication of colorectal cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Pleurocutaneous fistula is a pathological communication of subcutaneous tissue with the pleural cavity, and can occur as a result of infectious, malignant processes and iatrogenic procedures. Colopleural fistula is rare and is mainly caused by processes in the abdomen. The appearance of empyema is usually described as a complication of colopleural fistulas that are the result of pathological processes in the abdomen. Case Presentation: We report an extremely rare case of colopleurocutaneous fistula with pleural empyema present, 8 years after left hemicolectomy due to colon adenocarcinoma. Radiological diagnostic procedures performed confirmed the existence of colopleurocutaneous fistula. The patient was given antibiogram therapy and regular thoracocentesis for empyema, as well as a fistulous canal toilet. Conclusions: After achieving sterility of the fistulous canal and regression of empyema, the fistulous canal was closed with fibrin glue, and during the next 6 months follow-up, there was no reopening of the fistula, nor did the patient have any other complications. Copyright © 2025 Savic et al.