What is a potential consequence of a pneumothorax?

A pneumothorax occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and the chest wall, leading to a collapse of the affected lung. This condition disrupts the normal pressure balance required for lung inflation during breathing. As a result, one significant potential consequence of a pneumothorax is respiratory failure. This can manifest as difficulty breathing or inadequate ventilation, where the lungs cannot effectively exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide. If the pneumothorax is extensive or not treated promptly, it can lead to serious complications, including complete lung collapse or even respiratory distress, which may necessitate medical intervention such as the insertion of a chest tube or surgery.

In contrast, the other options suggest improvements in lung function or capacity, which are not feasible outcomes in the presence of a pneumothorax. This condition impairs lung function and can lead to hypoxemia (low levels of oxygen in the blood), making the correct answer indicative of the serious risks associated with this medical issue.