PULMONARY ATELECTASIS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Atelectasis is a medical condition characterized by the partial or complete collapse of the lung alveoli, resulting in a decrease in lung volume and impaired gas exchange. This phenomenon can be segmental, lobar or affect the entire lung, depending on the extent and underlying cause. This narrative literature review brought together articles published in the last ten years in the PUBMED and SciELO databases, aiming to indicate the pathophysiology and main clinical manifestations of pulmonary atelectasis in the selected literature. It was concluded that the etiologies of atelectasis include mechanisms of: obstruction, compression, contraction and adhesion. The pathophysiology varies depending on the underlying cause, but generally involves loss of effective alveolar ventilation and reduced gas exchange capacity. The clinical manifestations of atelectasis can vary widely depending on the extent and rapidity of alveolar collapse. In cases of small or subsegmental atelectasis, patients may be asymptomatic. On the other hand, extensive atelectasis can cause more acute symptoms.