How Do You Spell VALVULAR PNEUMOTHORAX?

1. Valvular pneumothorax is a medical condition characterized by the presence of air in the pleural cavity, which is the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This condition occurs when there is a one-way valve mechanism allowing air to enter the pleural cavity during inhalation, but preventing air from leaving during exhalation.

   The condition typically arises as a complication of a traumatic injury or a pre-existing lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. In valvular pneumothorax, the accumulating air causes a progressive increase in pressure within the pleural cavity, leading to partial or complete lung collapse.

   This condition often presents with symptoms such as sudden, sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid and shallow breathing, and decreased lung sounds on examination. If left untreated, valvular pneumothorax can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.

   Treatment for valvular pneumothorax usually involves the insertion of a chest tube to drain the accumulated air and restore normal lung function. In some cases, a surgical procedure called pleurodesis may be performed to prevent future air leaks and lung collapses. Monitoring vital signs, providing oxygen therapy, and administering pain relief medications are also important aspects of managing valvular pneumothorax.

2. P. due to a wound in the pulmonary pleura which allows of the passage of air from the lung into the pleural cavity but closes under pressure and does not permit of the return of air into the lung.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for VALVULAR PNEUMOTHORAX

The etymology of the term "valvular pneumothorax" can be broken down as follows:

1. Valvular: The term "valvular" is derived from the Latin word "valvula", meaning a small valve. It is used to describe something that resembles or functions like a valve.

2. Pneumothorax: The term "pneumothorax" is composed of two parts. "Pneumon" comes from the Greek word "pneumon", meaning lung, and "thorax" comes from the Latin "thorax", meaning chest. Together, they refer to an abnormal condition where air accumulates in the pleural cavity between the lung and the chest wall.