A Catamenial Pneumothorax: Role Of Serial Chest Radiographs In The Diagnosis Of ARare Entity

Abstract

Catamenial Pneumothorax is generally considered to be a rare entity. The lack of a clear cause means that diagnosis and treatment is challenging.  The objective of this case report is to increase awareness and highlight the role of serial chest radiographs in improving the diagnosis of the pathology. A 33-year-old mother of two presented at the radiology department with a history of recurrent right-sided chest pain that corresponded with her menstrual period. Previous chest radiographs performed in the preceding six months all showed the presence of a right-sided pneumothorax, with associated pleural effusion. In considering the patient’s age, spontaneous pneumothorax occurring in conjunction with the menstrual cycle, and in the absence of other respiratory diseases, a diagnosis of catamenial pneumothorax was made. The patient was commenced on oral contraceptive pills (oestrogen-progestogen) and she recovered.