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Pneumothorax Causes
A collapsed lung, or pneumothorax, is the collection of air in the space around the lungs. This buildup of air puts pressure on the lung, so it cannot expand as much as it normally does when you take a breath.
Alternative Names
Air around the lung; Air outside the lung; Pneumothorax; Spontaneous pneumothorax
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
A collapsed lung may result from chest trauma, such as gunshot or knife wounds, rib fracture, or after certain medical procedures.
In some cases, a...
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From Our Sources
Pneumothorax
Source: HealthCentral Encyclopedia
Pneumothorax is a collection of air or gas in the pleural space of the lung, causing the lung to collapse. Pneumothorax may be the result of an open... Read more »
Pneumothorax
Source: Harvard Decision Guide
What Is It? A pneumothorax is commonly known as a collapsed lung. Normally, the outer surface of the lung sits next to the inner surface of the chest... Read more »
Tension pneumothorax
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
A tension pneumothorax is a complete collapse of the lung. It occurs when air enters, but does not leave, the space around the lung (pleural space).... Read more »
Spontaneous pneumothorax
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Spontaneous pneumothorax is a collection of air or gas in the chest that causes the lung to collapse. Spontaneous means there is... Read more »
Traumatic pneumothorax
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
A traumatic pneumothorax is a collection of air inside the chest, between the lung and inner chest wall, which causes the lung to collapse. It... Read more »
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