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Subcutaneous emphysema in advanced cancer
1Department of Medical Oncology and Palliative Care, Westmead Hospital, New South Wales, Australia.
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
|February 25, 2000
Summary
Extensive subcutaneous emphysema, a rare condition, can occur in advanced cancer patients. This case highlights a potential link to gastrointestinal perforation, even when asymptomatic.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
- Oncology
Background:
- Spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema is a rare condition, typically benign but occasionally symptomatic.
- Advanced cancer patients are rarely associated with this condition.
Observation:
- A patient with advanced cancer developed extensive subcutaneous emphysema shortly before death.
- The emphysema was asymptomatic despite its significant extent.
Findings:
- Gastrointestinal perforation, possibly due to straining from constipation or fistula formation, is the suspected cause.
- This mechanism is proposed for the development of spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema in this context.
Implications:
- Understanding the causes of spontaneous subcutaneous emphysema is crucial for patient management.
- This case underscores the importance of considering gastrointestinal complications in advanced cancer patients presenting with emphysema.