Relaxation or Passive Atelectasis Causes:

Relaxation or Passive Atelectasis often occurs when a pleural effusion (a pneumothorax, or a large emphysematous bulla) eliminates contact between the visceral pleurae and the parietal.

With Pneumothorax (loss of the negative pressure within the pleural space), there is nothing to hold the lungs to chest wall. Therefore, the lungs relax/recoil due to elastic properties and become atelectatic.

Low inspiratory volumes, pleural effusion, and pleural masses are often associated with Relaxation or Passive Atelectasis.

Symptoms of Relaxation or Passive Atelectasis:

Pleural effusion is more likely to affect/collapse the middle and lower lobes collapse as compared to the uppers. Pneumothorax, on the other hand, is more likely to cause Relaxation or Passive Atelectasis/collapse of the upper lobe.

Diagnosis of Relaxation / Passive Atelectasis:

In order to investigate the underlying causes, examination of chest radiographs and CT/MRI scans is usually required. In some cases, fibreoptic bronchoscopy and/or air-bronchograms may also be warranted.

Treatment for Relaxation / Passive Atelectasis:

Passive Atelectasis treatment options are dependent upon the underlying cause.

For additional specific details on atelectasis symptoms, atelectasis diagnosis, atelectasis treatment, atelectasis cures and remedies, and survival rates for specific types of atelectasis, please visit: Adhesive atelectasis, Basilar atelectasis, Cicatrization atelectasis, Compression atelectasis, Consolidation atelectasis, Dependent atelectasis, Lobar atelectasis, Platelike atelectasis, Postoperative atelectasis, Relaxation Passive atelectasis, Replacement atelectasis, Right middle lobe syndrome, Resorptive atelectasis, and Rounded atelectasis.

Don't forget to check out Lung Disease News section of this website for the latest Relaxation / Passive Atelectasis Treatment News and our Lung Disease Articles Library for the latest Relaxation or Passive Atelectasis related Articles.

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