Iatrogenic pneumothorax in a term neonate.

Abstract

This case report discusses the neonatal management of a term baby born with normal parameters but developed respiratory distress shortly after birth. Initially, the baby presented with blue extremities, respiratory distress and grunting. He was placed on a nasal cannula, 6 L, 25% FiO₂ Subsequently, the baby was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit, where examination revealed intercostal retractions and tachypnoea. After an hour, the baby was attached to nasal continuous positive airway pressure with 5 cm pressure, which increased to 6 cm with 40% oxygen. Despite initial improvement, the baby deteriorated the next day with unequal air entry and a positive transillumination test indicating pneumothorax. Needle thoracocentesis successfully managed the pneumothorax without the need for chest tube insertion.The main lesson from this case is the importance of prompt recognition and intervention for neonatal pneumothorax, highlighting the need for vigilant monitoring in infants with respiratory distress.