Pneumomediastinum from a severe asthma attack

JAAPA. 2013 Jul;26(7):29-32. doi: 10.1097/01.jaa.0000431512.13196.f3.

Abstract

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a rare complication of an asthma exacerbation characterized by chest pain, dyspnea, neck swelling, and subcutaneous emphysema. Although the condition is usually benign and treatment is primarily supportive, surgical intervention may be needed if the patient develops hemodynamic or respiratory failure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Asthma / complications*
  • Asthma / diagnosis
  • Asthma / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mediastinal Emphysema / diagnosis*
  • Mediastinal Emphysema / etiology*
  • Mediastinal Emphysema / therapy
  • Young Adult