PNEUMOTHORAX Meaning and
Definition
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Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined as the presence of air or gas in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This condition occurs when there is a breach or rupture in the lung or airways, allowing air to escape into the pleural space. As a result, the pressure in the pleural cavity increases, leading to the collapse of the lung or a portion of it.
Pneumothorax can be classified into two main types: spontaneous pneumothorax and traumatic pneumothorax. Spontaneous pneumothorax occurs without any apparent cause or injury, often due to the rupture of small, air-filled sacs in the lungs called blebs or bullae. On the other hand, traumatic pneumothorax is caused by an external injury or medical procedure that damages the lung or pleura.
Symptoms of pneumothorax may include sudden sharp or stabbing chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and decreased breath sounds on the affected side upon auscultation. Diagnosis is usually made through physical examination, imaging tests like chest X-ray or CT scan, and sometimes by aspirating air from the pleural cavity.
Treatment options for pneumothorax depend on the severity and underlying cause. Small or mild cases may resolve on their own, but observation or noninvasive interventions like oxygen therapy may be required. Larger or more severe cases often necessitate invasive procedures such as needle aspiration, chest tube insertion, or surgery to drain the air and re-expand the lung.
Overall, pneumothorax is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural cavity, which can lead to the partial or complete collapse of the lung. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent complications and
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The escape of air or gaseous effusion into the pleaura through a laceration of the lung.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PNEUMOTHORAX
Etymology of PNEUMOTHORAX
The word "pneumothorax" is derived from Greek roots.
The first part, "pneumo", comes from the Greek word "pneuma" (πνεῦμα), meaning "air" or "breath". This element is also found in words like "pneumonia" (inflammation of the lungs) and "pneumatic" (relating to air or gas).
The second part, "thorax", comes from the Greek word "thōrax" (θώραξ), meaning "chest" or "breastplate". It refers to the upper part of the trunk between the neck and the abdomen.
Therefore, "pneumothorax" combines these two Greek elements to describe a medical condition in which air accumulates in the space between the chest wall and the lungs.
Similar spelling word for PNEUMOTHORAX
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