Pneumothorax

Alternative names:

collapse of the lung; lung collapse

Definition:

A collection of air or gas in the chest causing the lung to collapse. See also traumatic pneumothorax, tension pneumothorax, and atelectasis.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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

Spontaneous pneumothorax is thought to be caused by the rupture of a bleb or bullae (a small air-filled sac in the lung). The disease affects tall, thin men between 20 and 40 years old most frequently. Cigarette smoking and family history are contributing factors. Pneumothorax may also be a complication of underlying pulmonary (lung) disease (COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis, tuberculosis, whooping cough).

Traumatic pneumothorax results from an injury, penetrating or otherwise, to the chest. It is sometimes caused by medical procedures as well as accidental injury.

Tension pneumothorax is caused when air enters the pleural space with each inspiration, and excessive pressure builds up. This results in pressure on the lung from air in the pleural space, causing collapse of the lung.

Pneumothorax affects 9 out of 100,000 people a year.