Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema in Children Infected with H1N1 Virus: A Case Report.
10.4266/kjccm.2010.25.3.155
- Author:
Bo Geum CHOI
1
;
Hye Jung YUN
;
Yeo Hyang KIM
;
Myung Chul HYUN
Author Information
1. Department of Pediatrics, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea. kimyhped@hanmail.net
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
child;
emphysema;
influenza;
pneumomediastinum
- MeSH:
Anti-Bacterial Agents;
Child;
Emphysema;
Humans;
Inflammation;
Influenza, Human;
Inhalation;
Intensive Care Units;
Mediastinal Emphysema;
Mediastinum;
Oxygen;
Pneumonia;
Pneumothorax;
Prognosis;
Rupture;
Subcutaneous Emphysema
- From:The Korean Journal of Critical Care Medicine
2010;25(3):155-158
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is a rare condition in children which is triggered by respiratory infection and inflammation, although it occurs most commonly in asthmatics. It is caused by alveolar rupture and dissection of air into the mediastinum and hilum, and the prognosis is usually benign. We report two cases of SPM and subcutaneous emphysema complicating pneumonia in children with severe H1N1 infection. The patients were admitted to the intensive care unit and treated with oxygen, inhalation of a bronchodilator, intravenous systemic corticosteroid (methyprednisolone, 2 mg/kg/day for 5 days) and antibiotics, together with antiviral therapy. On day 4 after admission, there was no further evidence of SPM. SPM associated with severe H1N1 infection in children resolves with aggressive supportive care, without progression to pneumothorax. We should remain aware of this air leak complication in children with severe respiratory infection.
