[Pneumothorax in young cannabis smokers: A propos of three cases]

Abstract

Introduction: Cannabis consumption is common among adolescents and young adults in France. In addition to its neurological effect, cannabis smoking can induce severe pulmonary emphysema, even in young patients. When a spontaneous pneumothorax occurs in a cannabis smoker, the possibility of a secondary spontaneous pneumothorax should be considered. This may be of importance as management of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax may differ from the well-codified handling of primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

Observation: Clinical and radiological data from three young cannabis-using patients with spontaneous pneumothorax were collected. Given the presence of emphysema, they were all considered secondary spontaneous pneumothorax. Two patients underwent surgical treatment, with simple postoperative follow-up in one case and prolonged air leak in the other case. The management of the third patient, exclusively medical, was prolonged and complicated.

Conclusion: The presence of emphysema in young cannabis smokers complicates the management of spontaneous pneumothorax. In this context, a first-line surgical intervention may be an option to be considered.

Keywords: Bulle d’emphysème; Cannabis; Emphysema bubble; Homme jeune; Pneumothorax; Young man.