Abstract
BACKGROUND: Pneumomediastinum is a potentially life-threatening condition. Patients can present with a variety of symptoms at the emergency department. Pneumomediastinum can be spontaneous or secondary due to perforation of the esophagus or tracheobronchial tree. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 20-year old man was seen at the emergency department with the suspicion of esophageal perforation. He noticed subcutaneous 'crackles' arising after an episode of severe vomiting. In the emergency room a non-acute ill patient was seen with subcutaneous emphysema of the neck and chest. A CT-scan with oral contrast did not show esophageal contrast leakage or other pathology that could be the cause of his pneumomediastinum. Therefore, we diagnosed the patient with a spontaneous pneumomediastinum. He was discharged after an observation period of 24 hours. CONCLUSION: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a rare, self-limiting disease with an excellent prognosis. Differentiating spontaneous pneumomediastinum from more severe secondary causes will avoid unnecessary therapy and prolonged hospitalization.
Translated title of the contribution | A harmless form of pneumomediastinum: avoid unnecessary diagnostics and treatment |
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Original language | Dutch |
Journal | Nederlands Tijdschrift voor Geneeskunde |
Volume | 167 |
Publication status | Published - 28 Jun 2023 |