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Pneumomediastinum post amphetamine smoking

Case contributed by Chris O'Donnell
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Smoking amphetamines (ice), now central chest pain. Palpable subcutaneous emphysema.

Patient Data

Gender: Male

Marked subcutaneous emphysema is associated with marked pneumomediastinum, pneumopericardium, small bilateral pneumothoraces and even extradural spinal gas. No apical lung bullae/blebs and no signs of rib/lung trauma.

Case Discussion

Gas is presumed to originate from rupture of alveolar sacs into the lung intestitium, thus into the pleural spaces and mediastinum. Reason for rupture might well be high alveolar pressures generated by forced Valvslava maneuvers (to enhance absorption of the drug) or vomiting as a side effect of the drug(s).

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