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Pneumothorax is a condition of the Lungs when there is an excess amount of air invades the pleural space.

Can be divided into two primary types: Spontaneous (without trauma) or Traumatic.

Pneumothorax is a synonym for a condition more commonly known as a Collapsed Lung.

Can be an emergent condition and medical attention may be required immediately.

Often an X-ray or CT scan is required for Diagnosis

Spontaneous can be divided into Primary and Secondary

Types:

1.)  Primary is when it occurs with no underlying lung condition

2.)  Secondary is the result of an underlying lung condition

3.)  Traumatic is a result of trauma to lung tissue or a blunt trauma into lung

4.)  Iatrogenic is a result of procedures near the lungs such as a biopsy [or other]
resulting in a collapse

5.) Tension is a medical emergency

Primary pneumothorax is typically seen in a tall, thin young men between the ages of 10 and 30.

It is also seen in those who have Marfan syndrome.

Family history and smoking may be related.

Secondary causes

• Asthma
• Emphysema
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis
• Cancers
• Sarcoidosis

Symptoms

• Difficulty breathing
• Pain with breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Cough
• Hypoxia  –  loss of oxygen
• A penetrating chest wound
• Difficulty to talk
• Cyanosis  [turning blue]

Treatment

Depends on the severity of the pneumothorax

• Some small pneumothorax require no treatment
• Oxygen is essential
• Chest tube placement
• Pleurodesis  –  chemical placement that causes irritation
• Talc may be used
• Cessation of smoking
• Thoracoscopy
• Open Thoracotomy

1/3 of those having pneumothorax will have a reoccurring episode