[Catamenial pneumothorax].

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Pulmonology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Catamenial pneumothorax is a rare form of spontaneous pneumothorax.
• It is strongly associated with the menstrual cycle, occurring concurrently with menses.
• The exact pathogenesis remains unclear, but it predominantly affects the right hemithorax.

Observation:

• The current case brings the total reported instances to 33.
• Exploratory right thoracotomy was performed in 27 patients.
• Pleural or diaphragmatic endometriosis was identified in 8 of these patients.

Findings:

• A significant association exists between catamenial pneumothorax and endometriosis.
• 11 patients exhibited clinical or histological evidence of pelvic endometriosis.
• The condition's unilateral and right-sided predilection is notable.

Implications:

• These findings suggest endometriosis as a potential underlying cause or significant contributing factor in catamenial pneumothorax.
• Further research into the link between thoracic endometriosis and pneumothorax is warranted.
• This understanding may guide diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for affected individuals.