Do Weather Phenomena Have Any Influence on the Occurrence of Spontaneous Pneumothorax?

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of weather phenomena on the occurrence of spontaneous pneumothorax (SP) in the Plzeň region (Czech Republic).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 450 cases of SP in 394 patients between 1991 and 2013. We observed changes in average daily values of atmospheric pressure, air temperature and daily maximum wind gust for each day of that period and their effect on the development of SP.

RESULTS

The risk of developing SP is 1.41 times higher (P=.0017) with air pressure changes of more than±6.1hPa. When the absolute value of the air temperature changes by more than±0.9°C, the risk of developing SP is 1.55 times higher (P=.0002). When the wind speed difference over the 5 days prior to onset of SP is less than 13m/sec, then the risk of SP is 2.16 times higher (P=.0004). If the pressure difference is greater than±6.1hPa and the temperature difference is greater than±0.9°C or the wind speed difference during the 5 days prior to onset of SP is less than 10.7m/s, the risk of SP is 2.04 times higher (P≤.0001).

CONCLUSION

Changes in atmospheric pressure, air temperature and wind speed are undoubtedly involved in the development of SP, but don't seem to be the only factors causing rupture of blebs or emphysematous bullae.