Pneumothorax
Also known as: Luftbrust · Spontaner Pneumothorax · Traumatischer Pneumothorax · Spontaneous pneumothorax · Canine pneumothorax
Overview
What it is
A pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lungs and the chest wall, known as the pleural cavity. This accumulation of air destroys the normal negative pressure required for breathing, causing the lung to collapse. It can happen suddenly due to physical trauma, like an accident, or spontaneously if a small air sac in the lung ruptures.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice sudden, severe difficulty breathing, rapid and shallow breaths, and pale or bluish gums. These symptoms appear abruptly and can affect dogs of any age.
Treatment
This is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention, such as removing the trapped air with a needle, placing a chest tube, or performing surgery. Treatment is typically a one-time emergency procedure rather than a lifelong condition, with costs generally ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Röntgenuntersuchung des Brustkorbs(Thoraxröntgen)
Primary testRadiographEine Röntgenaufnahme des Brustkorbs (Thorax) dient dem Nachweis von Bauchorganen in der Brusthöhle und der Darstellung des defekten Zwerchfells.
Issuing body: vet
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pneumothorax?
A pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lungs and the chest wall, known as the pleural cavity. This accumulation of air destroys the normal negative pressure required for breathing, causing the lung to collapse. It can happen suddenly due to physical trauma, like an accident, or spontaneously if a small air sac in the lung ruptures.
How is Pneumothorax tested?
Tests currently in our database: Röntgenuntersuchung des Brustkorbs.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.