Pneumothorax - Diagnosis

Diagnosis

The symptoms of pneumothorax can be vague and inconclusive, especially in those with a small PSP, and confirmation with medical imaging is usually required. In contrast, tension pneumothorax is a medical emergency and may be treated before imaging - especially if there is severe hypoxia, very low blood pressure, or an impaired level of consciousness. In tension pneumothorax, X-rays are sometimes required if there is doubt about the anatomical location of the pneumothorax.