Subcutaneous emphysema

Abstract

May signal a serious underlying pathology

Spontaneous Subcutaneous Emphysema and Pneumomediastinum Associated With Influenza B Virus in a Young Male Adult: A Case Report

“…SE and SPM are mostly traumatic or post-surgical, as in the case of barotrauma leading to rupture of alveoli and subsequent air leakage to the mediastinum and adjacent cervical subcutaneous cavities [1]. However, although it is rare, these conditions can occur due to non-traumatic causes including infections and abuse of illicit drugs, in addition to chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, which result in the weakening of the bronchoalveolar walls, thereby making them fragile and prone to rupture [1].…”

“…Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) and subcutaneous emphysema (SE) are uncommon conditions, in which spontaneous refers to the leakage of air from the lung cavity to other cavities including the subcutaneous tissue, without causing any traumas. Usually, it is self-limiting or may require supportive management only, unless it is caused by a serious underlying pathology of the lungs or associated with critical conditions such as pneumothorax and secondary bacterial pneumonia [1].…”