[Reexpansion pulmonary edema]

Abstract

Reexpansion pulmonary edema (RPE) is a rare entity that develops after reexpansion in a chronically collapsed lung. There is a broad clinical spectrum of the disease ranging from asymptomatic appearance to lethal form that occurs in approximately 20% of the cases. The pathophysiological background is complex and not clarified in all details. RPE may be prevented by knowing and treating potential risk factors. This review summarizes the updated knowledge on the pathophysiological background, clinical picture and treatment modalities of RPE.