Empyema resulting from a true colopleural fistula complicating a perforated sigmoid diverticulum

Empyemas developing after traumatic rupture of intra-abdominal organs have been previously reported. We report a case of a true nontraumatic colopleural fistula following surgery for spontaneous rupture of a sigmoid diverticulum. The diagnosis was suspected by the presence of an air-containing tract seen in a computerized tomogram of chest and abdomen and was established with a contrast study. The empyema cavity was initially drained, followed by a laparotomy and fistulectomy with primary large bowel anastomosis and loop ileostomy. Although rare, colopleural fistulas present a diagnostic challenge and delayed management can lead to increased morbidity.