A case of chronic expanding hematoma resulting in fatal hemoptysis

An 80-year-old woman presented with a huge intrathoracic mass which had increased in size over 4 years. Computed tomography showed a thick calcified capsule and early-enhanced streaks inside the mass. Needle biopsy aspirated pure blood and fibrous connective tissue. F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography showed moderate FDG uptake at the periphery with central photon defects. Gallium-67 scintigraphy showed no abnormal uptake. On suspicion of chronic expanding hematoma, we recommended surgical resection, but the patient requested only follow-up. One year later, she was hospitalized with cardiac tamponade and subsequent massive hemoptysis. Repeated embolization was ineffective, and the patient soon succumbed.