Menstrual cycle related pneumothorax: case report and review of the literature

Background: Catamenial pneumothorax is the most common form of thoracic endometriosis syndrome. It occurs around the beginning of a menstrual cycle. Although the mechanism of catamenial pneumothorax is not definitely clear, endometriosis plays an important role in it. Video-assisted thoracic surgery is standard procedure for the treatment of recurrent pneumothorax in general. Case study: We report on a case of catamenial pneumothorax in women with a history of recurring spontaneous pneumotoraces associated with diaphragmatic endometrial implants who is involved in the IVF procedure. Conclusion: Combination of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and gonadotropinreleasing-hormone analogue gives the best results, to reduce the risk of pneumothorax to recur. Treatment of catamenial pneumothorax is complex and should include thoracic surgeon and gynecologist as soon as the diagnosis is definitive.