pneumothorax
Accumulation of air in the pleural space causing lung collapse, particularly common in ventilated preterm infants.
Full Definition
A potentially life-threatening condition where air enters the pleural space, causing partial or complete lung collapse. In neonates, pneumothorax often occurs as a complication of mechanical ventilation or from rupture of overdistended alveoli in conditions like meconium aspiration or respiratory distress syndrome. Tension pneumothorax requires immediate decompression to prevent cardiovascular compromise. The condition is more frequent in preterm infants due to their immature lung structure and higher likelihood of requiring respiratory support.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as PTX in clinical notes; distinguish from pneumomediastinum in documentation.
In Context
- "The chest X-ray revealed a right-sided pneumothorax requiring immediate needle decompression." — Medical record documentation
- "Risk of pneumothorax increases with higher ventilator pressures in extremely preterm infants." — Clinical guideline