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Localized pneumothorax with lobar collapse and diffuse obstructive airway disease

K Nimkin1, P K Kleinman, R G Zwerdling

  • 1Department of Radiology, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester 01655, USA.

Pediatric Radiology
|January 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Localized pneumothorax near collapsed lung lobes in children with diffuse obstructive airway disease can resolve spontaneously. A conservative approach is often justified for this specific radiographic finding.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Thoracic Radiology

Background:

  • Localized pneumothorax adjacent to collapsed lung lobes is documented in pediatric bronchial obstruction.
  • This study examines this phenomenon in children with diffuse obstructive airway disease.

Observation:

  • Seven children (3 weeks–17 years) with diffuse obstructive airway disease developed lobar collapse and adjacent localized pneumothorax.
  • Five patients exhibited paradoxical mediastinal shift toward the pneumothorax side.

Findings:

  • The condition occurred in association with diffuse obstructive airway disease.
  • In six of seven cases, spontaneous resolution of pneumothorax and lobar reexpansion were observed.

Implications:

  • A conservative management strategy is suggested for this specific radiographic presentation in children.
  • Findings support non-invasive treatment for localized pneumothorax secondary to diffuse obstructive airway disease.

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