COVID-19 associated spontaneous barotrauma: a literature review

Reports of spontaneous pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum as a complication coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have been increasing. COVID-19 causes inflammatory mainly affecting the respiratory system. Severity varies from asymptomatic pulmonary findings on imaging to acute distress syndrome along with pleural effusions, consolidations pneumothorax. The aim this paper was review literature explore association between pneumomediastinum/pneumothorax disease, both in patients ventilators without ventilators, basis. To end, we conducted comprehensive online search using PubMed for articles published key words ‘spontaneous pneumothorax’, ‘pneumomediastinum’ ‘COVID-19’. Further references were obtained through cross-referencing bibliographies cited each publication. We found that spontaneous barotrauma is one complications associated infection has observed mechanical ventilation. process development not well understood, especially underlying lung or identified various factors that predispose barotrauma. First, direct Type I II pneumocytes by virus. Second, pressure gradient alveoli interstitium. Finally, can occur secondary severe response COVID-19-related cytokine storm. These conditions are all alveolar damage rupture wall produce pneumothorax, mechanically ventilated non-ventilated patients. result prolonged ventilation length stay, overall increase morbidity mortality. Spontaneous two serious complications. Education regarding adjustment settlings ventilator-dependent patient may perhaps offset iatrogenic component seen some such patients.