Traumatic asphyxia compounding craniofacial trauma

Traumatic asphyxia is a condition characterized by cervicofacial petechiae, subconjunctival ecchymosis and other possible accompanying problems particularly ophthalmic, thoracic and cardiovascular injuries. While the facial petechiae per se are of little consequence, the attendant injuries to other organ systems can be serious and even fatal. Craniofacial injuries also present with fatal ecchymosis and haematoma formation due to the underlying skeletal injuries which may require active management. Clinicians managing trauma patients should be well aware of these two different entities which may occur separately or simultaneously so as to ensure correct and adequate treatment.