title: Spontaneous pneumomediastinum: benefits of contrast computed tomography imaging.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We report a case of spontaneous pneumomediastinum presenting with chest and anterior neck pain.
  
  
  METHODS
  The clinical findings, differential diagnosis and selection of radiological investigations are discussed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is an uncommon condition usually presenting in young patients. Presentation to the otolaryngology department occurs due to the presence of symptoms such as neck pain. Differential diagnoses must be considered and excluded, using the clinical features and the results of radiological investigation. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, conservative management is undertaken.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is uncommon and the clinical features are variable. The recommended investigation is a computed tomography scan with orally administered, water soluble contrast to exclude important differential diagnoses and thus enable definitive diagnosis.
authors: Department of Otolaryngology, University Hospitals of Leicester, UK. emmahoskison@hotmail.com
authors: E
authors: E
authors: Hoskison
authors: O
authors: O
authors: Judd
authors: E
authors: E
authors: Dickinson
authors: R
authors: R
authors: Vaidhyanath
authors: H
authors: H
authors: Pau
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002637:Chest Pain / Q000209:etiology; D003287:Contrast Media; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000178:diet therapy; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media