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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax

Provided by A.D.A.M.

Definition

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

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Alternate 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.

Pictures & Images

Lungs
Lungs

Aortic Rupture, Chest X-Ray
Aortic Rupture, Chest X-Ray

Pneumothorax - Chest X-Ray
Pneumothorax - Chest X-Ray

Respiratory System
Respiratory System

Chest Tube Insertion - Series
Chest Tube Insertion - Series

 
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Overview, Causes, & 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.



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Definition
Pneumothorax Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Pneumothorax Symptoms & Signs
Pneumothorax Prevention
Pneumothorax Diagnosis & Tests
Pneumothorax Treatment
Pneumothorax Prognosis
Pneumothorax Complications
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Pictures & Images

Topics that might be of interest to you

Diseases & Conditions

Asthma
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Cystic Fibrosis
Pertussis
Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Spontaneous Pneumothorax
Tension Pneumothorax
Traumatic Pneumothorax

Tests & Exams

Chest X-Ray

Surgery & Procedures

Chest Tube Insertion

Other Topics

Abdominal Pain
Breath Sounds
Breathing Difficulty
Chest Pain
Fatigue
Nasal Flaring
Pulse - Bounding
Skin Discoloration - Bluish
Stress and Anxiety

Review Date : 10/22/2003
Reviewed By : Allen J. Blaivas, D.O., Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University Hospital, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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