A case report on vaping associated spontaneous pneumothorax
Abstract
The association between vaping and spontaneous pneumothorax (SP) represents a relatively novel concept in pulmonary medicine. Emerging
evidence suggests that vaping alone may precipitate spontaneous pneumothorax. Several case reports have documented this phenomenon,
indicating an evolving understanding of its etiological role. Pneumothorax is defined as the accumulation of air within the pleural cavity, leading to
dyspnea and thoracic pain. While tobacco smoking and cannabis use are long established risk factors for SP, vaping has recently surfaced as an
additional risk factor of concern [1]. We present a case involving a 35-year-old physically fit Caucasian male who presented to the emergency
department with acute dyspnea and right-sided pleuritic chest pain, accompanied by referred pain in the back. Achest X-ray revealed a right-sided
pneumothorax with an apical pleural gap measuring 2.5 cm. The patient had no significant past medical history and did not exhibit any marfanoid
features. Given his stable clinical condition, a chest drain was deemed unnecessary. This case highlights vaping as a potential emerging cause of
pulmonary injury [2]. The association between vaping and spontaneous pneumothorax warrants further investigation, particularly given the high
recurrence rate of SP in such cases. Early intervention, including thoracostomy and surgical options, is crucial in severe presentations to mitigate
recurrence.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case report, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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