Pneumorrhachis with Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum: Should It Raise Special Concerns?

Journal Title: Oman Medical Journal - Year 2018, Vol 33, Issue 3

Abstract

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare and benign condition predominantly seen in young males. Patients present with non-specific pleuritic chest pain, cough, and dyspnea. Hence, it is difficult to diagnose in the acute setting until other serious differential diagnoses involving the integrity of the aerodigestive tract have been excluded. This results in over investigation and overtreatment until a diagnosis has been confirmed. We report a case of a 21-year-old Omani female who presented with a complaint of cough. She was diagnosed based on clinical and radiological findings after exclusion of hollow viscous perforation to have SPM extending to the spinal canal (pneumorrhachis). Her condition improved following conservative management, and she was sent home after three days.

Authors and Affiliations

Dina Valiyakath, Thuraya Al Busaidi, Salma Al Shamsi, Yaqoob Al Sawafi

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP293582
  • DOI 10.5001/omj.2018.47
  • Views 92
  • Downloads 0

How To Cite

Dina Valiyakath, Thuraya Al Busaidi, Salma Al Shamsi, Yaqoob Al Sawafi (2018). Pneumorrhachis with Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum: Should It Raise Special Concerns?. Oman Medical Journal, 33(3), 256-259. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-293582