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Case Reports
. 2008 Apr 4:2:100.
doi: 10.1186/1752-1947-2-100.

Pneumopericardium should be considered with electrocardiogram changes after blunt chest trauma: a case report

Arjan J M Konijn  1 , Peter H M Egbers, Michaël A Kuiper
Affiliations
Case Reports

Pneumopericardium should be considered with electrocardiogram changes after blunt chest trauma: a case report

Arjan J M Konijn et al. J Med Case Rep. .

Abstract

Introduction: Electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities in patients with blunt chest trauma are diverse and non-specific, but may be indicative of potentially life-threatening conditions.

Case presentation: We report a rare case of pneumopericardium with extreme ECG abnormalities after blunt chest trauma in a 22-year-old male. The diagnosis was confirmed using computed tomography (CT) scanning. The case is discussed, together with its differential diagnosis and the aetiology of pneumopericardium and tension pneumopericardium.

Conclusion: Pneumopericardium should be distinguished from other pathologies such as myocardial contusion and myocardial infarction because of the possible development of tension pneumopericardium. Early CT scanning is important in the evaluation of blunt chest trauma.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
ECG performed on admission.
Figure 2
Figure 2
ECG showing the most striking abnormalities. Interestingly, there is no change in QRS amplitude, frequently seen in pericardial tamponade. Owing to technical problems, lead V2 is absent.
Figure 3
Figure 3
ECG performed shortly after drainage. The remaining abnormalities resolved completely in approximately 12 h. Owing to technical problems, lead V2 is absent.
Figure 4
Figure 4
CT scan, transversal view, showing pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium. Haematothorax is present at the time of scanning.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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