Spontaneous recurrent menstrual pneumothorax: a case report

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Endometriosis is most commonly found in the pelvic area, approximately 12 percent of people have it in other areas or organs, which is known as extrapelvic endometriosis. Thoracic endometriosis, which is also classified as extrapelvic endometriosis, manifests with four distinct forms: catamenial pneumothorax, catamenial hemothorax, catamenial hemoptysis, or lung nodules. Catamenial pneumothorax is the most common clinical symptom of these; however, it is frequently neglected by clinicians and goes undiagnosed and untreated. As a result, it is critical to raise awareness of this medical condition among clinicians. Case presentation: We present a case report of a 34-year-old woman of reproductive age who had recurrent episodes of spontaneous pneumothorax during menstruation and underwent treatment with thoracoscopic surgery as well as gynecological hormonal drugs including oral progesterone and dienogest throughout this time. Based on her symptoms, a catamenial pneumothorax caused by thoracic endometriosis was suspected. Clinical discussion: The clinical symptoms, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of Catamenial Pneumothorax are analyzed. Furthermore, the usage of gynecological hormone medications in this condition has been discussed. The mechanisms of oral contraceptives and progestin-based medications are evaluated by comparing the patient’s treatment process, highlighting their pros and cons. Conclusions: Thoracoscopic surgery combined with postoperative gynecological hormonal medications may be the most effective treatment for this issue. Several gynecological hormonal medicines are available, each of which has its own set of pros and cons, and must be thoroughly evaluated as well as correctly tailored to the patient’s specific circumstances to have a positive therapeutic outcome.