Clinical Management of Secondary Spontaneous Pneumothorax: Case Study of Suspected Pulmonary Tuberculosis

Abstract

Secondary spontaneous pneumothorax is the accumulation of air in the pleural cavity that occurs due to an underlying lung disease, such as pulmonary tuberculosis, and can lead to serious respiratory complications. This study aims to report the clinical course, diagnosis, and management of a case of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax suspected to be associated with pulmonary tuberculosis. A case report approach was used, focusing on a 46-year-old male patient who presented with complaints of shortness of breath and chronic cough. The diagnosis was established through a comprehensive history taking, physical examination, chest radiography, and laboratory findings. Management involved the placement of a water-sealed drainage (WSD) system and the administration of first-line anti-tuberculosis therapy. Daily follow-up revealed clinical improvement, including lung re-expansion and a reduction in dyspnea symptoms. The results indicate that a combination of pneumothorax management and TB treatment can lead to favorable clinical outcomes when performed promptly and appropriately. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of pneumothorax as a complication of pulmonary tuberculosis to prevent further complications, as well as the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach in its management. These findings contribute to clinical practice in the diagnosis and management of similar cases, particularly in regions with a high prevalence of tuberculosis.