[Recurrent pneumothorax in asthma attacks]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Asthma exacerbations can be complicated by pneumothorax, a serious condition.
• Recurrent pneumothorax poses significant management challenges in patients with asthma.

Observation:

• Two young patients with asthma experienced three successive pneumothorax episodes during asthmatic attacks.
• Initial management involved pleural drainage, with surgical fixation (visceral pleurectomy) employed during the second episode.

Findings:

• Pneumothorax can complicate and exacerbate asthma symptoms.
• Surgical intervention, specifically visceral pleurectomy, was effective in managing recurrent pneumothorax in these cases.

Implications:

• Early surgical treatment for pneumothorax in asthma patients is suggested, particularly after the first recurrence.
• This approach may improve outcomes and prevent further complications in managing asthma with recurrent pneumothorax.