Atelectasis
Alternate Names : Partial Lung Collapse
DefinitionAtelectasis is the collapse of part or all of a lung by blockage of the air passages (bronchus or bronchioles), or by very shallow breathing. See also pneumothorax.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Anesthesia, prolonged bed rest with few changes in position and shallow breathing, and underlying lung diseases are risk factors for atelectasis. Secretions that plug the airway, foreign objects (common in children) in the airway, and tumors that obstruct the airway may lead to atelectasis.
In an adult, small regions of atelectasis are usually not life-threatening, because unaffected parts of the lung compensate for the loss of function in the affected area. Large-scale atelectasis, especially in someone who has another lung disease or illness may be life-threatening. In a baby or small child, lung collapse due to a mucus obstruction or other causes can be life-threatening.
Massive atelectasis may result in the collapse of a lung.
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