J93: Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax, commonly referred to as a collapsed lung, is a group of conditions characterized by the accumulation of gas or air in the pleural cavity, the space between the lung and the chest wall. This can result in partial or complete lung collapse. Typically, pneumothorax is caused by injury to the chest, such as a blunt force trauma or penetrating wound, but it can also occur spontaneously due to a rupture of small air-filled sacs in the lungs, known as blebs. Certain medical conditions, like pneumonia, lung cancer, or tuberculosis, can also contribute to the development of a pneumothorax. Symptoms generally include sudden and sharp chest pain on the affected side, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and decreased oxygen levels. Over time, if left untreated, pneumothorax can lead to life-threatening complications, including total lung collapse and respiratory failure. Pneumothorax affects the respiratory system in the human body.