Pneumothorax in Children

The space between the lung and chest wall is called the pleural space. Pneumothorax occurs when air leaks out of the lung and is trapped in this space. The air presses on the lung and can cause part or all of the lung to collapse. This sheet tells you more about pneumothorax and treatment options for your child.

Pneumothorax occurs when air enters the pleural space around the lung. Pressure on the lung may then cause it to collapse.

What Causes Pneumothorax?

There are several types of pneumothorax. Each type has a different cause.

• Traumatic pneumothorax: This type occurs when an injury damages the lung and causes a leak. The injury may be due to such things as a blow, fall, car accident, or broken rib.

• Primary spontaneous pneumothorax: This type occurs when there is a weakened spot (“bleb”) on the surface of the lung. Most children with blebs have no related health problems and no symptoms. But if a bleb ruptures, pneumothorax results.

• Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax: This type is due to lung disease. It is more likely to occur in children with problems such as cystic fibrosis or asthma.

• Iatrogenic pneumothorax: This type may be the result of injury during certain procedures. These can include central line placement (when a small tube is placed in a vein in the chest) and mechanical ventilation.

What Are the Symptoms of Pneumothorax?

Symptoms of pneumothorax vary for each child. The most common symptoms include:

• Chest pain that may spread to the shoulder and back

• Shortness of breath

• Fast, shallow, breathing

In more severe cases, symptoms can also include:

• Fast heartbeat

• Bluish tinge to the skin caused by lack of oxgyen (cyanosis)

• Sudden collapse or shock

How Is Pneumothorax Diagnosed?

The doctor will examine your child. The doctor will also listen to your child’s heart and lungs through a stethoscope. A chest x-ray will be done to check how severe the leak is. In some cases, a CT scan may also be done. This test combines x-rays and computer scans to provide detailed pictures of the lungs.

How Is Pneumothorax Treated?

The doctor will monitor your child’s symptoms. If needed, your child will be given breathing support. Any underlying health problems can be identified and treated.

• If the leak is small and your child’s symptoms are under control, your child may be sent home without any further treatment. A small pneumothorax usually heals on its own.

• If the leak is large, your child will be admitted to the hospital. One or more of these treatments may then be done:

  • Aspiration: A needle is inserted between the ribs into the pleural space. This helps remove the leaked air, so breathing can return to normal.

  • Chest tube placement: A thin tube is placed into the chest. This tube is attached to a suction device that removes the leaked air. This helps the lung expand fully again. 

  • Surgery: This may be done if other treatments fail to close the leak. It may also be done if your child has had more than one pneumothorax. During surgery, blebs may be removed or sealed off. Techniques may also be used to make the surface of the lung thicker and harder to rupture. The doctor will tell you more about surgery for your child if it is needed.

What Are the Long-Term Concerns?

Most children do well after treatment. But they are at increased risk of having another pneumothorax in the future. To help prevent recurrence, your child may be advised to avoid certain activities, such as scuba diving and frequent air travel. Children with lung disease are at higher risk to have continued problems after treatment. They will need regular doctor visits to manage their health and condition.