Perthes´ Syndrome: Traumatic Asphyxia

Abstract

Background: Traumatic asphyxia is a clinical condition that is caused by the sharp increase in venous pressure in the territory of the superior vena cava due to a violent compression of the thorax. It is also called traumatic apnea, bruise mask, Perthes´ syndrome and Morestin´s syndrome. Case Report: This case report describes a male patient with a history of chest trauma secondary to a crushing impact from a bus for a period of approximately 10 minutes. He came to the emergency room with periorbital ecchymosis and bilateral conjunctival hemorrhage. Imaging studies showed left clavicular fracture, rib fractures and pulmonary contusion without other associated pathologies. The patient was handled with supplemental oxygen and analgesia, showing a favorable clinical evolution. Conclusion: The diagnosis is clinical, requires holistic management to rule out life-threatening injuries.