Subcutaneous emphysema: an unusual presentation of foreign body aspiration

Abstract

Two cases of subcutaneous emphysema owing to foreign body aspiration are described. In case 1, a 2½-year-old boy presented with complaints of respiratory distress, cough, and swelling over neck. Computed tomography scan of neck and thorax revealed subcutaneous emphysema along with emphysematous changes of left lung. In Case 2, a 5-year-old boy presented with left pneumothorax along with massive subcutaneous emphysema, extending from the face to the chest. Computed tomography scan of the chest revealed subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and left pneumothorax. Both of the patients underwent bronchoscopic removal of the foreign body from the left main bronchus. At present both are asymptomatic and doing well. Subcutaneous emphysema is rare as a manifestation of foreign body aspiration and this cause should be kept in mind, even in the absence of forthcoming history of aspiration.