Catamenial Pneumothorax (CP) | Biomedgrid

Catamenial pneumothorax (CP) presents as a recurrent respiratory emergency due to failure to identify and treat the underlying gynecological condition. As a rare cause of pneumothorax, CP is unique in its temporal relationship with the onset of menses. Its nature of recurring during time of menstruation makes it less likely to be a separate spontaneous pneumothorax coinciding with menstruation. Several mechanisms have been proposed and although the exact pathophysiology of CP remains elusive, advances in surgical interventions have suggested diaphragmatic defects and thoracic endometriosis to play a fundamental role in the pathogenesis. In addition to technological advances, increased medical awareness and research have suggested that CP may be more common than previously thought. This review article will discuss the proposed mechanism of pathophysiology, evaluation, and acute and long-term management.