A case of cough induced rib fracture with subcutaneous emphysema and pneumothorax

Author: Wan Nor Aida Wan Mohd Shukri ¹ ; Ng Von How ¹ ; Ahmad Khaldun Ismail ¹
Author Information

1. Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Publication Type:Case Reports
From: The Medical Journal of Malaysia 2019;74(6):551-552
CountryMalaysia
Language:English
Abstract: Coughing is an important reflex mechanism which enhances the clearance of secretions and particulates from the airways, however repetitive muscle strain due to prolonged coughing may cause the uncommon complication of stress fracture of the ribs. The following is an unusual case of cough induced multiple rib fractures associated with subcutaneous emphysema and pneumothorax which was missed in the emergency setting. Delayed diagnosis and treatment would have been avoided if this uncommon condition was considered as a possibility