Atelectasis is the partial or complete collapse of a lung or part of a lung, caused when the tiny air sacs (alveoli) inside the lung become deflated or blocked. This condition reduces or stops gas exchange in the affected lung area and is commonly associated with surgery under general anesthesia, but it can also result from airway obstruction by mucus, tumors, foreign objects, or pressure from fluid or tumors outside the lung. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, cough, wheezing, chest pain, and low oxygen levels, though mild cases might not show symptoms. Treatment depends on addressing the underlying cause and may involve removing blockages, supplemental oxygen, or physiotherapy.
Causes
- Blockage of airways by mucus plugs, foreign objects, or tumors
- Pressure on the lung from pleural effusion (fluid) or tumors
- Postoperative effects, especially following general anesthesia
- Lung infections like pneumonia
- Surfactant deficiency in newborns
- Prolonged bed rest or shallow breathing due to pain or muscle weakness
Types of Atelectasis
- Obstructive (resorptive): Blockage inside the airway prevents air from inflating alveoli
- Compressive: External pressure from fluid, air, or tumors compresses the lung
- Contraction: Scarring or fibrosis restricts lung expansion
- Neonatal: Caused by surfactant deficiency at birth
- Other less common types related to specific causes or chronic conditions
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath and rapid breathing
- Cough that may produce mucus
- Chest pain and wheezing
- Possible low oxygen saturation and bluish skin discoloration in severe cases
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosed mainly through chest X-rays or imaging showing lung collapse. Treatment targets the underlying cause, such as clearing airway obstructions, draining fluid, physiotherapy to expand the lung, supplemental oxygen, and sometimes antibiotics if infection is involved. Most cases improve once the cause is treated.
