MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -A collapsed lung happens when air enters the pleural space, the area between the lung and the chest wall. If it is a total collapse, it is called pneumothorax. If only part of the lung is affected, it is called atelectasis.

Detailed explanation-2: -A collapsed lung occurs when air escapes from the lung. The air then fills the space outside of the lung between the lung and chest wall. This buildup of air puts pressure on the lung, so it cannot expand as much as it normally does when you take a breath. The medical name of this condition is pneumothorax.

Detailed explanation-3: -It is often called a collapsed lung, although that term may also refer to pneumothorax. It is a very common finding in chest X-rays and other radiological studies, and may be caused by normal exhalation or by various medical conditions.

Detailed explanation-4: -The word “atelectasis” is Greek in origin; It is a combination of the Greek words atelez (Ateles) and ektasiz (ektasis) meaning “imperfect” and “expansion” respectively.

Detailed explanation-5: -There are three main types of atelectasis: compressive, resorptive (obstructive) and contraction.