Measles pneumonia, pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and pneumopericardium in an infant: a rare association in an epidemic context

Abstract Background Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that most often affects unvaccinated children. The most frequent manifestation is respiratory involvement, which can progress to severe forms such as measles pneumonia. Air leak syndrome, comprising pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and pneumopericardium, is an exceptional and life-threatening complication that can precipitate respiratory failure. Case presentation We report the case of a five-month-old infant with measles pneumonia, further complicated by an Air leak syndrome consisting of pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and pneumopericardium. The association of measles pneumonia on the one hand and pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and pneumopericardium on the other is exceedingly rare, with only a limited number of similar cases described in the literature. Despite appropriate respiratory support, the infant died after forty-eight hours. Conclusion Through this case, we revisit the underlying pathophysiology of measles pneumonia and air leak syndrome, the diagnostic approach, and the various therapeutic options. This case report highlights the importance of early recognition of Air leak syndrome and the central role of vaccination in preventing this serious disease.