Catamenial Pneumothorax: Breathing Through The Menstrual Cycle

Catamenial Pneumothorax: Breathing Through The Menstrual Cycle DOI: https://doi.org/10.31436/imjm.v25i02.2869Keywords: Catamenial, endometriosis, menstrual cycle, pneumothorax, rare diseaseAbstract Catamenial pneumothorax (CP) is a unique disease related to thoracic endometriosis. It is often diagnosed in females of reproductive age presenting with recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax aligned with their menstrual cycle. We present a case of a woman presenting with recurrent episodes of dyspnoea coinciding with her menstrual cycle. Radiographic imaging confirmed a recurrent pneumothorax, and thoracoscopy with a pleural biopsy revealed diaphragmatic fenestrations and thoracic endometriosis. Multiple approaches, including medical pleurodesis, surgical pleurodesis, and hormonal therapy were used in her treatment. She recovered well after started on continuous oral Dienogest, and she has been asymptomatic for three years. This case illustrates the importance of recognizing the cyclical pattern of symptoms and a thorough diagnostic workup to confirm CP. This ensures timely management, which includes hormonal therapy and surgical intervention. Downloads Downloads Published How to Cite Issue Section License All material submitted for publication is assumed to be submitted exclusively to the IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia (IMJM) unless the contrary is stated. Manuscript decisions are based on a double-blinded peer review process. The Editor retains the right to determine the style and if necessary, edit and shorten any material accepted for publication. IMJM retain copyright to all the articles published in the journal. All final ‘proof’ submissions must be accompanied by a completed Copyright Assignment Form, duly signed by all authors. The author(s) or copyright owner(s) irrevocably grant(s) to any third party, in advance and in perpetuity, the right to use, reproduce or disseminate the research article in its entirety or in part, in any format or medium, provided that no substantive errors are introduced in the process, proper attribution of authorship and correct citation details are given, and that the bibliographic details are not changed. If the article is reproduced or disseminated in part, this must be clearly and unequivocally indicated.