Report of a case of bochdalek hernia in an adult presenting as chronic cough: review of literature and discussion

Abstract

Adult symptomatic bochdalek hernias (BH) are rare and account for 0.16%-6% of all diaphragmatic hernias. Chronic abdominal pain is commonest type of presentation. We have a patient of BH presented with chronic cough and breathlessness on exertion. Aim was to study clinical course and outcome of patient presented to our institute. We also would like to review relevant literature available online and compare it with our findings. 30-year-male from peripheral area had recurrent episodes of cough and breathlessness on exertion since 7 years. He was treated as a case of lower respiratory tract infection. We did chest radiogram which revealed presence of haziness in left lower zone with obliteration left costophrenic angle. His computerized tomography scan revealed defect of approximate size 43×45 mm in posterolateral aspect of left hemidiaphragm with omental herniation. Patient was operated by lap converted to open primary bochdalek hernia repair. His postoperative course was uneventful. Review of literature done revealed cough as a rare type of presentation. Laparoscopy is becoming emerging modality of treatment to do surgical correction. Adult onset diaphragmatic hernias have variable clinical manifestations. High index of clinical suspicion with imaging studies like contrast enhanced computed tomography (intravenous plus oral contrast) of chest and abdomen are required for timely diagnosis and treatment.