Spontaneous pneumothorax in children

Abstract

Question A 15-year-old boy in my practice returned for follow-up after having a spontaneous pneumothorax. He spent 6 hours in the emergency department and received oxygen. How common is this condition, and what needs to be considered regarding management and recurrence? Answer Primary spontaneous pneumothorax-penetration of air in the pleural space between the lung and the chest wall-in children is common, and the incidence seems to be on the rise. Emphysematous bleb, asthma, and tobacco use were the most common findings associated with the condition, and in young children pneumothorax might be associated with underlying congenital anomalies. Auscultation and observation of the chest with imaging are used to diagnose the condition, and recurrence in adolescents is common. Treatment includes supportive therapy (mostly rest and oxygen) for small pneumothorax or placing a chest tube or definitive surgical treatment for larger pneumothorax.