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Atelectasis: mechanisms, diagnosis and management

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Abstract

The term atelectasis describes a state of collapsed and non-aerated region of the lung parenchyma, which is otherwise normal. This pathological condition is usually associated with several pulmonary and chest disorders and represents a manifestation of the underlying disease, not a disease per se. Atelectasis may occur in three ways: (i) airway obstruction; (ii) compression of parenchyma by extrathoracic, intrathoracic, chest wall processes; and (iii) increased surface tension in alveoli and bronchioli. Chest radiographs using both the anterior-posterior and lateral projections are mandatory to document the presence of atelectasis. Differentiation from lobar consolidation may be a clinical dilemma. The treatment of atelectasis varies depending on duration and severity of the causal disease from chest physiotherapy to postural drainage, bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory therapy. Persistent mucous plugs should be removed by bronchoscopy.

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Address for correspondence: Prof. Attilio Boner, Clinica Pediatrica Universita’ di Verona, Policlinico GB Rossi, Via Menegone 37134 Verona, Italy. Tel: 39 045 8074615, Fax: 39 045 8200993, E-mail: [email protected]

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