skip to main content

Tension pneumothorax — ABIM Board MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyPulmonary/Critical CareTension pneumothoraxABIM Board

A 24-year-old tall man develops sudden pleuritic chest pain and dyspnea. He is hypotensive, tachycardic, and has tracheal deviation away from the affected side with absent breath sounds. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Tension pneumothorax

Hypotension, unilateral absent breath sounds, and tracheal deviation after sudden pleuritic pain identify tension pneumothorax, a clinical diagnosis requiring immediate decompression.

Reference: ATLS Principles; BTS Pleural Disease Guideline