Spontaneous pneumomediastinum, pneumopericardium and epidural pneumatosis: insights on clinical management.
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a benign condition that has been reported, however the association with epidural pneumatosis is much less common. A 27-year-old male presented with concomitant air in the epidural space, mediastinum and pericardium after illicit drug use and engagement in sexual activity. The patient was hemodynamically stable. Non-invasive tests ruled out aerodigestive injury. The patient was discharged after a short observation without intervention. Invasive and potentially risky diagnostic tests may be safely avoided in patients who remain asymptomatic with this unique presentation.
Dewitt-Daughtry Family Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Ryder Trauma Center . Miami, Florida , USA.
Casey J
CJ
Allen
Laura F
LF
Teisch
Kenneth D
KD
Stahl
D000328:Adult; D003075:Coitus; D004646:Emphysema / Q000150:complications*; D004824:Epidural Space / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008478:Mediastinal Emphysema / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011026:Pneumopericardium / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011859:Radiography; D013352:Subcutaneous Emphysema / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications*
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum; epidural pneumatosis; pneumopericardium