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Primary spontaneous pneumothorax — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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ModeratePleural DiseasePrimary spontaneous pneumothoraxSCE Respiratory

A 23-year-old tall man presents with sudden pleuritic chest pain. He is haemodynamically stable, breathless only on exertion and has a 2 cm left apical primary spontaneous pneumothorax on chest radiograph. Oxygen saturation is 97% on air. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: B — Conservative management with safety-netting and review

Current BTS guidance allows conservative management for minimally symptomatic stable primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Routine large-bore drainage or surgery is not required in a stable first presentation. Antibiotics do not treat uncomplicated pneumothorax.

Reference: BTS Pleural Disease Guideline 2023