Pleural adhesions
Pleural adhesions usually refers to the formation of fibrotic bands that span the pleural space, between the parietal and visceral layers of the pleura.
Pathology
They may be local or diffuse. The presence of a pleural adhesion is one of the causes for a pneumothorax not to resolve.
Etiology
- prior trauma/surgery
- penetrating chest trauma (e.g. stabbing, gunshot wound)
- rib fractures
- surgical (e.g. pleurectomy)
- prior infective conditions
- sequelae of vascular disorders
- environmental exposure
