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Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema: An Unexpected Complication After Noninvasive Ventilation in a COVID-19
Mariana Sousa1, Ana de Matos Valadas1, Joana Rodrigues Dos Santos1
1Internal Medicine, Hospital de Santa Maria, Unidade Local de Saúde de Santa Maria, Lisboa, PRT.
Abstract:
Pneumomediastinum is a rare clinical condition defined by the presence of free air in the mediastinum. We present the case of a 57-year-old male with severe COVID-19 pneumonia, complicated by pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema, in a patient without identifiable risk factors for such complications. The patient, a non-smoker with no known lung comorbidities, received medical treatment for COVID-19 and underwent non-invasive ventilation prior to the onset of emphysema. Like most cases, it resolved spontaneously with conservative management, including close monitoring, bed rest, analgesia, and oxygen therapy. The patient was discharged in stable condition.
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