Alternative names
Air around the lung; Air outside the lung

Definition
A pneumothorax is collection of air or gas in the pleural space (the space surrounding the lungs). See also Spontaneous pneumothorax, Traumatic pneumothorax, and Tension pneumothorax.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

There are several types of pneumothorax, which are classified by cause.

Spontaneous pneumothorax is the occurrence of pneumothorax without a clear cause. Primary spontaneous pneumothorax occurs when there is no known underlying lung disease. It is thought to be caused by the rupture of a small, air-filled sac in the lung called a bleb or a bulla. The disease affects tall, thin men between 20 and 40 years old most frequently. Cigarette Smoking and family history are contributing factors.

Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is a complication of underlying pulmonary (lung) disease, such as COPD, Asthma, Cystic fibrosis, Tuberculosis, and whooping cough.

Traumatic pneumothorax results from a traumatic injury to the chest. The trauma may be penetrating (stab wound, gunshot) or blunt (blow from a motor vehicle accident). Pneumothorax may complicate certain medical procedures.

Tension pneumothorax is caused when excessive pressure builds up around the lung, forcing it to collapse. The excessive pressure can also prevent the heart from pumping blood effectively, leading to shock.

Symptoms

 
• sudden sharp chest pain, especially made worse by a deep breath or a cough  
• Shortness of breath  
• chest tightness  
• easy fatigue  
• rapid heart rate  
• bluish color of the skin caused by lack of oxygen

Note: Symptoms may begin during rest or sleep.

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

 
• nasal flaring  
• anxiety, stress, and tension  
• hypotension (Low Blood pressure)

Signs and tests
Stethoscope examination of the chest reveals decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side.

Tests include:

 
• Chest x-ray to determine presence of air outside the lung  
• arterial blood gases

Treatment

The objective of treatment is to remove the air from the pleural space, allowing the lung to re-expand. Small pneumothoraces may resolve on their own.

The placement of a chest tube (chest tube insertion) between the ribs into the pleural space allows the evacuation of air from the pleural space. With the chest tube left in place, the lung may take several days to re-expand. Hospitalization is required for proper care of the chest tube.

Supplemental oxygen may be needed to help air around the lung be reabsorbed more quickly.

Surgery may be needed to prevent recurrent episodes.

Expectations (prognosis)
Up to 50% of patients with pneumothorax experience recurrence, but there are no long-term complications following successful therapy.

Complications

 
• recurrent pneumothorax  
• tension pneumothorax with shock

Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if symptoms of pneumothorax develop; especially if you have previously experienced this condition.

Prevention
There is no known prevention, other than to decrease risk by stopping Smoking.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.