From the Guidelines
Pneumatoceles are most commonly caused by infectious processes, with bacterial pneumonia being a primary cause, especially in children, as well as other infectious causes like Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, tuberculosis, and infections with gram-negative organisms 1.
Causes of Pneumatoceles
The primary causes of pneumatoceles include:
- Bacterial pneumonia, particularly Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia
- Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, especially in immunocompromised patients like those with HIV/AIDS
- Tuberculosis
- Infections with gram-negative organisms like Klebsiella or Pseudomonas
- Trauma, including barotrauma from mechanical ventilation, blunt chest trauma, or hydrocarbon aspiration
Formation of Pneumatoceles
Pneumatoceles typically form when an infectious or inflammatory process causes necrosis of lung tissue, creating a one-way valve mechanism that allows air to enter but not escape from the damaged area.
Resolution and Complications
Most pneumatoceles resolve spontaneously over weeks to months as the underlying condition improves, though complications like infection, rupture causing pneumothorax, or tension pneumatocele may require intervention such as drainage or surgical management 1.
Key Considerations
It is essential to note that pneumatoceles can be associated with underlying lung disease, and their management should be tailored to the individual patient's needs, taking into account the underlying cause and any potential complications 1.
From the Research
Causes of Pneumatocele
- Infections:
- Trauma:
- Ingestion:
- Kerosene ingestion, which can lead to pneumatoceles 2
- Other causes:
- Coagulase negative staphylococcus, which may be related to the illness 2