Spontaneous pneumomediastinum, emphysema, and pulmonary bullae associated with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in a child

Abstract

We report a 21-month-old child with spontaneous pneumomediastinum (PM), emphysema, and pulmonary bullae caused by Mycoplasma pneumonia (M. pneumoniae) pneumonia. The patient presented with stubborn dyspnea and wheezing although received integrated treatment, including anti-infection, anti-inflammation, and intravenous immunoglobulin. This case was unique in that pulmonary bullae kept increasing. PM and emphysema were refractory in our patient, which have been reported as benign and limited. Surgical intervention was implemented to ultimately cure the case. Clinicians should be aware of air leaks in patients with M. pneumoniae pneumonia since this complication may be fatal.

Keywords: emphysema; pneumomediastinum; pulmonary bullae; refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia.