If left untreated, atelectasis may result in several complications. For instance, bacteria may become trapped in the lung, which can lead to pneumonia and sepsis. Bronchiectasis—abnormal enlargement of parts of the airways—pleural effusion, and hypoxemia may also occur. If the condition affects a large part of the lungs, there is a risk of respiratory failure—a potentially life-threatening condition in which the level of oxygen in the blood becomes dangerously low.

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