PATHOPHYSIOLOGYOf PNEUMOTHORAX

A.Description

1.Pneumothorax is the accumula-tion of air in the pleural space,which results in partial or com-plete lung collapse.2.Types include:a.

Tension pneumothorax:

Air can enter the pleuralspace but cannot leave it.b.

Secondary pneumothor-ax:

Air enters the pleuralspace as a result of injuryto the chest wall, respir-atory structures, or eso-phagus.c.

Spontaneous pneumo-thorax:

air enters thepleural space when air-filled blebs (blisters) onthe lung surface rupture.

B.Etiology

1.Tension pneumothorax resultsfrom unknown causes.2.Secondary pneumothorax iscaused by injury to the chestwall resulting from trauma (suchas crushing injuries0 or frompunctures (such as stab woundsor gunshot wounds).3.Spontaneous pneumothorax iscaused by a ruptured bleb andAir from thelung entersthe pleuralspace, push-ing the lungaway fromthe chest.Chest Cavity isopen to outside