[Catamenial pneumothorax with persistent air leak].

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Gynecology

Background:

• Catamenial pneumothorax is a rare condition characterized by recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax in women of reproductive age.
• It typically occurs in temporal relation to the menstrual cycle, often within 24 hours before or 72 hours after its onset.

Observation:

• Diagnosis can be challenging, relying heavily on medical history, and may require surgical or histopathological confirmation.
• This condition is often underdiagnosed due to limited awareness and knowledge.

Findings:

• Management strategies are varied, including hormonal therapy, pleurodesis, and surgical interventions like lung or diaphragm resection/repair.
• Reporting atypical cases is crucial for enhancing understanding and clinical recognition.

Implications:

• Increased awareness and knowledge of catamenial pneumothorax are vital for healthcare providers to avoid misdiagnosis.
• Timely diagnosis and appropriate management can improve patient outcomes for this rare but significant condition.