Spontaneous pneumomediastinum, pneumopericardium and epidural pneumatosis: insights on clinical management

Abstract

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.

Keywords::

• Spontaneous pneumomediastinum
• pneumopericardium
• epidural pneumatosis

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.