Hamman Syndrome: A Case Report of Interlobar Pneumothorax, Pneumopericardium, and Pneumorrhachis

Hamman syndrome is a rare and benign condition characterized by the presence of air in the mediastinum without an external cause. It most commonly occurs in young adults and is often triggered by activities that increase intrathoracic pressure, such as coughing, vomiting, or asthma exacerbations. We report the case of an 18-year-old male patient with a history of asthma who presented with shortness of breath, chest pain, and subcutaneous emphysema. Imaging evaluation revealed pneumomediastinum, interlobar pneumothorax, pneumopericardium, pneumorrhachis, and subcutaneous emphysema. The patient was treated with supplemental oxygen and analgesia. The symptoms gradually improved, and follow-up imaging confirmed the resolution of pneumomediastinum within four days. Hamman syndrome is commonly misdiagnosed due to its non-specific clinical presentation. Imaging evaluation is crucial for diagnosis and for differentiating it from other serious conditions. This case report illustrates a rare combination of uncommon imaging findings in Hamman syndrome.