Recurrent subcutaneous emphysema as a consequence of bulimia nervosa.
OBJECTIVE
Pneumomediastinum is a rare complication of increased intrathoracic pressure. It is more likely to occur in individuals with nutritional deficiencies. Pneumomediastinum has been reported in some individuals with anorexia nervosa.


METHODS
Case report.


RESULTS
Recurrent subcutaneous emphysema is probably secondary to recurrent pneumomediastinum in a woman with bulimia nervosa.


CONCLUSIONS
It is believed that increased intrathoracic pressure and nutritional deficiency associated with repeated induced vomiting contributed to this complication. This is the only case of recurrent subcutaneous emphysema. While in this case, and in most cases, the course was benign with eventual reabsorption of the subcutaneous air, pneumomediastinum can be a life-threatening complication of bulimia nervosa.
Mood Disorders Research Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA.
John M
JM
McCurdy
Courtney E
CE
McKenzie
Rif S
RS
El-Mallakh
D052018:Bulimia Nervosa / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D012008:Recurrence; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000209:etiology*; D055815:Young Adult