[Spontaneous pneumomediastinum in dermatomyositis: a pathophysiological approach using imaging].
BACKGROUND
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a rare complication of dermatomyositis.


METHODS
We report a case of pneumomediastinum with massive subcutaneous emphysema occurring in a female patient with dermatomyositis treated with cortico-steroids.


CONCLUSIONS
Our case illustrates perfectly the mechanism of spread of air along the broncho-vascular structures and also explains the presence of pneumomediastinum in the absence of pneumothorax.
de Maupeou
F
F
Service de Radiologie et d'Imagerie Médicale, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France. fdemaupeou@yahoo.com
Chiavassa-Gandois
H
H
Giron
J
J
Zabraniecki
L
L
Sans
N
N
Fournie
B
B
Railhac
J J
JJ
D003882:Dermatomyositis / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology; D008875:Middle Aged; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed