Pneumothorax Following COVID-19: Based on Autopsy Findings

Abstract Background More and more studies showed pneumothorax is a complication of the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). But no autopsy findings of pneumothorax in COVID-19 decedent were reported, and direct relations between pneumothorax and lung pathology in these decedents were not discussed so far.Methods A 62-year-old man with COVID-19 presenting with persistent hypoxemia and suddenly dead, who was treated by mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit (ICU) for 5 days. A systemic autopsy examination of COVID-19 decedent, including histopathology study, was conducted and the medical record, chest computerized tomography (CT) image were reviewed by forensic pathologists and clinicians. Results Severe pneumothorax, diffuse alveolar damage and airway obstruction were observed. Pneumothorax should be one of the causes of death.Conclusion Pneumothorax, due to SARS-CoV-2 infection, is a fatal complication of COVID-19. Regular examination of chest CT or X-ray and airway management are important to clinical treatment.