Subcutaneous Emphysema Associated with Pneumomediastinum and Complicated Pneumopericardium in a 14-Month-Old Infant

Abstract

Pneumomediastinum is sometimes observed in adult patients but its occurrence in pediatric patients (especially infants) is very rare. We here report a 14-month-old male infant who had subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and importantly, pneumopericardium. He had no particular past histories. He abruptly had cough, fever, and eruption on the abdomen. Computed tomography and echocardiography revealed pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium. Antibiotics, rest, and supportive therapy ameliorated the condition. We must be aware that pneumomediastinum, and importantly pneumopericardium, can be present in a pediatric patient with subcutaneous emphysema. The infant's symptoms disappeared under strict monitoring of respiratory status, nasal oxygen therapy and antibiotic therapy.