Journal Published Online: 01 July 1978
Volume 23, Issue 3

Spontaneous Pneumothorax in the Newborn: A Report of Two Fatalities

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

Pneumothorax in the newborn is a well-known complication of the respiratory distress syndrome and its therapy [1,2]. The sudden unexpected development of this condition in a full-term, apparently healthy infant is uncommon. When this pneumothorax leads to immediate death, the diagnosis will most likely elude clinicians and the case be reported to the medical examiner. The diagnosis can be readily made and documented if one is familiar with this entity and considers it prior to autopsy. The Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences has encountered two such deaths in a year.

Author Information

Norton, LE
University of Texas, Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, Tex.
DiMaio, VJM
University of Texas, Southwestern Medical School, Dallas, Tex.
Zumwalt, RE
Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences, Dallas, Tex.
Pages: 3
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: JFS10698J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS10698J