Adhesive atelectasis denotes partial or complete lung collapse because of surfactant deficiency.

The normal composition (consistency) of surfactant (consisting of phospholipid dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine) is such that it helps lower the surface tension (adhesion) of the alveoli, and therefore helps prevent collapse of these delicate, tiny structures.

What Causes Adhesive Atelectasis?

As a result of decreased surfactant production or abnormal changes in it's composition (inactivation of surfactant), alveolar structures have a greater risk of collapse. Respiratory disorders that create alveolar instability, and therefore, increase the likelyhood of Adhesive Atelectasis include: Acute respiratory distress syndrome, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), Cardiac bypass surgery, Hyaline membrane disease, Oxygen toxicity, Prolonged shallow breathing, Radiation pneumonitis, Smoke inhalation, Traumatic injury to the lungs, Aspergillus mucous plugging due to allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, and Uremi.

Adhesive Atelectasis Symptoms:

Symptoms observed during the physical examination usually include: dullness to percussion, and diminished breathing sounds over the affected area, Reduced chest excursion in the affected area. Often the trachea and/or the heart are also observed to have deviated toward the area affected by Adhesive Atelectasis.

Adhesive Atelectasis Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of Adhesive Atelectasis usually involves: arterial blood gas evaluation, Chest x-rays and Chest CT scans indicative of possible Right upper lobe (RUL) collapse, Right middle lobe (RML) collapse, Right lower lobe (RLL) collapse, possibly elevated right hemidiaphragm, Left upper lobe (LUL) collapse, Lower Left Lung (LLL) collapse, evidence of mass in the subpleural space, and/or parietal pleural plaque. Flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy is often needed for the visualization of Adhesive Atelectasis -especially when the subsegmental bronchi are involved.

Treatment, Cures and Remedies for Adhesive Atelectasis:

The treatment of Adhesive atelectasis focuses on restoring the surfactant efficacy. Nebulized bronchodilators may also be prescribed to promote sputum expectoration. Humidity control also helps lower viscocity of the secretions, thereby promoting removal thereof.

Adhesive Atelectasis Prognosis:

In some cases, Adhesive Atelectasis patients may also develop respiratory disorders such as Acute pneumonia, Bronchiectasis, Empyema, Hypoxemia, Pleural effusion, and Respiratory failure.

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