A Rare Case of Cervical Subcutaneous Emphysema Following Swimming
Jonathan Abou Chaar1, Ibana Carapiperis1, Rita Maria Jalkh1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Ear, Nose, & Throat Journal
|May 13, 2025
Summary
Subcutaneous cervical emphysema, air in the neck, is rare after swimming. A 9-year-old girl recovered with conservative care, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Pediatrics
- Radiology
Background:
- Subcutaneous cervical emphysema involves air trapped in the neck's tissues.
- It commonly results from trauma, infection, or medical procedures affecting the respiratory tract.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical signs and radiographic imaging of the neck and chest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an extremely rare case of subcutaneous cervical emphysema in a child following swimming.
- To discuss the clinical presentation, management, and outcome of this unusual condition.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 9-year-old female with subcutaneous cervical emphysema after swimming.
- Clinical evaluation, including physical examination and radiographic assessment.
- Conservative management and 1-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms of subcutaneous cervical emphysema after swimming.
- Conservative management led to complete self-resolution of symptoms within one month.
- No severe complications such as airway compromise were observed.
Conclusions:
- Subcutaneous cervical emphysema following swimming is exceptionally rare.
- Conservative management can be effective for mild cases in children.
- Prompt diagnosis and monitoring are crucial to prevent potential life-threatening complications.
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