A case of surgically treated recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax during pregnancy

Spontaneous pneumothorax in pregnancy is a very uncommon condition, with fewer than 100 cases described in the English literature. This case report describes a pregnant woman who experienced two episodes of primary spontaneous pneumothorax during pregnancy. A 31-year-old, Caucasian pregnant woman (P2 G3 A1, gestational age 17+0 weeks), conceived naturally, body mass index 28, a former smoker, arrived at the hospital with dyspnea and chest pain. Pneumothorax was detected and managed with a chest tube. However, three days after discharge, pneumothorax reoccurred. Due to a persistent air leak, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was performed. Histological examination revealed enlarged airspaces without any signs of specific lung pathology. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient delivered a healthy newborn without complications. This case highlights the importance of multidisciplinary, individualized diagnostic and treatment options in pregnant patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure optimal outcomes for both mother and fetus.