Punctured lung without special cause (primary spontaneous pneumothorax) occurs without underlying diseases or known causes. Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is seen in known lung disease which in some cases is due to rheumatic disease. COPD is the cause in about 70% of cases. After injury, the lung can also be punctured (traumatic pneumothorax). Pressure pneumothorax can be seen in all types and is due to increasing pressure in the affected lung. When more air enters than exits the pleura in this condition, the respiratory function is severely affected over time. The condition is investigated and followed up by a pulmonologist.
In general, men are attacked much more often than women, especially at the age of 20-40. Tall people with low weight are also generally at risk. The most common cause is that blisters / cysts in the lungs rupture.
In some rheumatic diseases, secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is seen in the following diseases (not complete list):
- Ankylosing spondylitis (ankylosing spondylitis)
- Ehlers-Danlos disease
- Marfan's syndrome
- Myositis
- Rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis)
- Sjögren's syndrome with LIP cysts (lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia)
- Systemic sclerosis
- Other
- Asthma, COPD
- Accident
- After draining pleural effusion (water on the lung)
- After incorrect needle placement by acupuncture or similar
- Respirator use
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of pneumothorax are sudden chest pain and shortness of breath (dyspnoea).
Examinations
Imaging with a regular X-ray of the lungs is usually sufficient. In some cases, CT of the lungs, which provides more accurate images, may also be helpful. Pneumothorax can also be detected by ultrasound.
Treatment
Not all cases of pneumothorax need treatment. The goal of the treatment is for the air in the lung cavity to return, so that the lung regains normal function. Some go back by themselves during observation. In other cases, aspiration (suction) with a needle and drain with a pump is relevant. Rarely, surgical treatment is required.
