A Case of Acupuncture Induced Pneumothorax
Azka Naeem1, Kimberly M Soultan1, Muhammad H Khan1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, 11219, USA.
Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives
|March 14, 2024
Summary
Acupuncture is generally safe but can cause rare, life-threatening complications like pneumothorax. This case highlights a potential risk following traditional Chinese medicine practices, even for localized pain.
Area of Science:
- Integrative and Complementary Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Background:
- Alternative medicine use is increasing, leading to a rise in associated complications.
- Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, is popular globally but carries rare risks.
- Life-threatening complications from acupuncture, though infrequent, necessitate clinical awareness.
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