Spontaneous Right Pneumothorax Manifesting as ST-Segment Elevation on ECG
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Electrocardiographic (ECG) findings in right-sided pneumothorax are clinically variable. This case details ECG changes characterized by ST-segment elevation in the high lateral leads, offering insights for clinical management, diagnosis, and treatment. CASE SUMMARY: A 63-year-old woman with spontaneous pneumothorax was admitted with severe cough and chest tightness. Her ECG revealed ST-segment elevation in leads I and aVL. Cardiogenic causes were excluded after further examination, attributing the symptoms to right-sided pneumothorax. The ECG normalized after the pneumothorax was resolved. DISCUSSION: The ECG manifestations of right-sided pneumothorax are less clinically apparent compared with those of left-sided pneumothorax. This phenomenon is underpinned by multiple mechanisms, necessitating the integration of observed ECG findings to accurately localize the affected site and perform a comprehensive analysis. TAKE-HOME MESSAGES: The mechanism underlying right-sided pneumothorax is complex, with diverse clinical manifestations. Analyzing its etiology and tailoring treatment to the specific clinical context is essential.
Source: JACC Case Reports
Authors: Lei Liu, Tao Ye, Wenqi Tao, Panpan Xia
Language: English
Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $850
OpenAlex ID: W7124735023