Pneumothorax
Air accumulation in the pleural space causing lung collapse
This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
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What is Pneumothorax?
Pneumothorax is defined as the presence of air in the pleural space between the visceral and parietal pleura, leading to loss of the normal negative pressure and varying degrees of lung collapse. It is classified by etiology: primary spontaneous (PSP, without clinically apparent lung disease), secondary spontaneous (SSP, underlying lung disease), traumatic, and iatrogenic.
Primary spontaneous pneumothorax typically occurs in tall, thin, young adult male smokers due to rupture of apical subpleural blebs. Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax occurs in patients with underlying disease (COPD, cystic fibrosis, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer) and carries higher morbidity.
Tension pneumothorax — a clinical diagnosis — occurs when a one-way valve mechanism allows progressive air accumulation with mediastinal shift, impaired venous return, and hemodynamic collapse. It requires immediate needle decompression followed by tube thoracostomy regardless of imaging confirmation.
Diagnosis is confirmed by chest radiograph (visible visceral pleural line without lung markings beyond), CT (gold standard for small pneumothorax and bleb detection), or lung ultrasound (absent lung sliding, lung point sign).
Symptoms
Risk Factors
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Sudden onset of pleuritic chest pain and dyspnea warrants immediate medical evaluation, particularly in patients with underlying lung disease.
- Severe respiratory distress, hypotension, or rapid deterioration requires emergency department evaluation and consideration of tension pneumothorax.
- Known pneumothorax patients with recurrent symptoms, hemoptysis, or subcutaneous emphysema need urgent reassessment for enlarging pneumothorax or complications.
Treatment Methods
Which Department to Visit?
You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.
Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları DepartmentLet us help you
You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.
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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.