Thoracic manifestations in hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome

Simple chest films of 106 cases of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) were reviewed retrospectively with clinical sequences. Renal type of Pulmonary edema (n=6), pulmonary congestion (n=3), pleural effusion (n=3), cardiomegaly (n=1) and subcutaneous emphysema (n=1) were the findings of thoracic manifestation of HFRS in order of frequency. Pulmonary edema and congestion were noted in oliguric and diuretic phases and noticeably seen when the oliguric phase was prolonged for more than 7 days (average oliguric phase, 3.3 days). Pleural effusion and cardiomegaly were also noted in oliguric and diuretic phases. Subcutaneous emphysema appeared in the diuretic phase. BUN/Cr level, EKG finding and platelet count didn't contribute to the thoracic findings. The type of pulmonary edema, in conjunction with the prolongation of the duration of oliguria and phase of revelation of thoracic findings suggest that fluid over load play a significant role in thoracic manifestation of HFRS.