Catamenial pneumothorax: a case report and review of the literature.

ABSTRACT

Catamenial pneumothorax is a rare condition that is often misdiagnosed. It is defined as spontaneous pneumothorax occuring within 72 hours before or after onset of menstruation. Etiology is unknown but could be linked to endometriosis. Treatment is medicosurgical thoracoscopy for pleural abrasion and hormonotherapy to avoid recurrence.