In this Article

• What is a pneumothorax?
• What are the types of pneumothorax?
• What are the causes of pneumothorax?
• Who is at risk for pneumothorax?
• What is a tension pneumothorax?
• What are the signs and symptoms of pneumothorax?
• How is pneumothorax diagnosed?
• How is pneumothorax treated?
• What is the outcome (prognosis) of pneumothorax?
• Pneumothorax At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Pneumothorax - Describe Your Experience
• Pneumothorax Glossary
• Pneumothorax Index

What is the outcome (prognosis) of pneumothorax?

The outcome of pneumothorax depends upon the extent and type of pneumothorax. A small spontaneous pneumothorax will generally resolve on its own without treatment. A secondary pneumothorax associated with underlying disease, even when small, is much more serious and carries a 15% mortality (death) rate. A secondary pneumothorax requires urgent and immediate treatment. Having one pneumothorax increases the risk of developing the condition again. The recurrence rate for both primary and secondary pneumothorax is about 40%; most recurrences occur within 1.5 to two years.

Pneumothorax At A Glance

• A pneumothorax is a collection of free air in the chest that causes the lung to collapse.
• Pneumothorax may occur on its own in the absence of underlying disease; this is termed spontaneous pneumothorax.
• Pneumothorax may also occur as a consequence of an injury or underlying lung disease.
• A small spontaneous pneumothorax may resolve without treatment; a pneumothorax arising as a result of lung disease or injury requires immediate treatment.
• Treatment may include insertion of a chest tube or aspiration of the free air in the chest cavity.

Reference: The American Lung Association

Pneumothorax - Describe Your Experience

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