title: Two case reports of pneumomediastinum.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  We present two cases of pneumomediastinum in patients who presented to the accident and emergency department of a large teaching hospital. One case had a history of inhalational drug abuse, which may have contributed to the event, while the other had no obvious precipitating factors.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the presenting symptoms, physical signs, diagnosis and management of pneumomediastinum with a review of the literature.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe two cases of pneumomediastinum with a literature review.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Pneumomediastinum is an uncommon entity, first described almost 400 years ago. It presents with relatively non-specific symptoms and signs and will require radiological investigations to clarify the diagnosis. Treatment is conservative but will require close observation for the development of complications and occult visceral perforation. Complete resolution can be expected.
authors: Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. daviodwyer@gmail.com
authors: D
authors: D
authors: O'Dwyer
authors: T B
authors: TB
authors: Low
authors: E
authors: E
authors: Neoftyou
authors: A
authors: A
authors: Mohammad
authors: N G
authors: NG
authors: McElvaney
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy*; D012307:Risk Factors
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