Radiological and clinical manifestations of pneumothorax

Background: Spontaneous and traumatic pneumothorax are potentially life-threatening conditions requiring prompt diagnosis. Radiological imaging plays a critical role in detection and classification. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study reviewed medical records and radiological reports of patients diagnosed with pneumothorax at a tertiary hospital. Data collected included demographics, clinical presentation, imaging findings, etiology, recurrence, and complications. Results: Radiologic confirmation of pneumothorax was achieved in 27.3% of suspected cases. Males represented 76% of patients, with a high prevalence of smoking (86%). Dyspnea (82%) and chest pain (66%) were the most common symptoms. Chest X-rays confirmed 86% of cases, while CT had 100% accuracy. Recurrence occurred in 30% of cases, with same-side recurrence more common than contralateral. Conclusion: Radiologic evaluation is essential in the diagnosis and management of pneumothorax. CT remains the gold standard, and recurrence is common, especially among smokers and patients managed conservatively.