When a Giant Bulla Mimics a Tension Pneumothorax: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Giant bullous emphysema (GBE) is a rare condition marked by irreversible damage to the lung parenchyma. Its clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic to various respiratory symptoms. GBE can closely resemble pneumothorax, and misdiagnosis may lead to inappropriate and potentially harmful interventions. A CT scan is essential to distinguish GBE from pneumothorax and to guide appropriate management. In this report, we present the case of a 38-year-old female who experienced shortness of breath for three months and was found to have a large left-sided bulla, confirmed by chest CT prior to any intervention. The patient underwent surgical management with favorable outcomes.