[Re-expansion pulmonary edema after iatrogenic pneumothorax. A propos of 1 case].

Re-expansion pulmonary edema (RPE) due to pneumothorax aspiration can lead to a fatal outcome, as in the case reported, the chronic nutritional deficiency and hypoproteinemia that it provokes probably playing a contributing role. Pathogenesis and factors affecting prognosis of RPE are discussed. These include the duration of the pulmonary collapse, though this is not an essential factor, the alterations in alveolar surfactant activity possibly related to the chronicity of the collapse, and the abruptness of aspiration which is, in contrast, a determining mechanical factor. Finally, the hypoproteinemia present in certain cases could facilitate fluid extravasation towards the alveolus. It is concluded that aspiration should be a gentle procedure in all cases, and should be conducted with extreme caution in the presence of hypoproteinemia.