Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum: A Single-Centre Study

<bold>Introduction:</bold> Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare, typically benign condition, often idiopathic, with various precipitating factors. Diagnosis is primarily by chest radiography and/or CT. Management is conservative except in complicated cases. <bold>Methods:</bold> A retrospective review of medical records from our institution was conducted to identify cases of SPM. Relevant clinical data were collected and analysed, and relevant imaging highlighted. <bold>Results:</bold> Four cases were analysed (3:1 M:F). Mean age was 25. Precipitating factors were asthma exacerbation (2/4); acute bronchitis (1/4); heavy lifting (1/4). Presenting complaints were chest pain (4/4, pleuritic in 3/4); cough (3/4); dyspnoea (4/4). All 4 underwent chest X-ray, with 3 requiring CT, 1 with oral contrast to exclude oesophageal perforation. All patients were treated conservatively; mean hospital stay was 4 days. Three cases resolved at follow up with no complications; recurrence occurred in one case due to continued heavy lifting. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> SPM warrants consideration in young patients with sudden dyspnoea and chest pain. Chest X-ray and CT scans are crucial for diagnosis and show characteristic signs. Management is mostly conservative though it is essential to rule out other causes including pneumothorax and oesophageal perforation which may alter treatment. Our study contributes insights into SPM's clinical profile and management, advocating for further research for optimal patient care. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA2093/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>