Pneumothorax and Mesothelioma Overview

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<p>Occupational exposure to asbestos (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>It shifts to the opposite side of the injury (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Air accumulates in the space between the lung and chest wall, causing lung collapse.

Occurs when an air-filled sac (bleb) in the lung ruptures, letting air into the pleural space.

A life-threatening condition where air enters the chest cavity but cannot escape, putting pressure on the heart and lungs.

A type of cancer that develops in the lining of the chest cavity (pleura).

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Mesothelioma is strongly linked to exposure to asbestos, a material commonly found in insulation and building materials.

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Accumulation of air in the pleural space
Spontaneous pneumothorax: caused by rupture of an emphysematous bleb, common in young adults
- Results in partial lung collapse, trachea shifts to the affected side
Tension pneumothorax: caused by penetrating chest wall injury
- Air enters pleural space, but cannot escape
- Trachea shifts away from the injured side
- Medical emergency, treated with chest tube insertion

Malignant tumor of mesothelial cells
Strongly linked to asbestos exposure
Characterized by recurrent pleural effusions, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), and chest pain
- Tumor surrounds the lung (encases)