Pleural effusion?—trust your gut

Abstract: A 16-year-old Caucasian male presented with non-specific acute respiratory symptoms, on a background of irritable bowel syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical examination and initial imaging were highly suggestive of a pleural effusion. Routine confirmatory ultrasound imaging prompted subsequent computed tomography scanning, revealing striking images of a Bochdalek hernia, therefore enabling appropriate subsequent management and avoiding patient harm.