Atelectasis

Atelectasis is the partial or total collapse of a portion of the lung, in which the small air sacs lose their content and stop taking part in breathing.

Common causes: It can be due to the blockage of an airway by secretions or other factors, or to compression of the lung tissue. In childhood it has particular features related to respiratory development.

Common symptoms: Depending on the extent, there may be difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or cough, although at times it is a finding on studies.

Which specialist treats it? In children, the pediatric pulmonologist is the one who evaluates this type of lung abnormality and advises on follow-up. If a child has persistent breathing difficulty, a review with this specialist is advisable.