Pneumomediastinum as a Complication of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Case Series
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.24950/rspmi.2062Keywords:
COVID-19/complications, Mediastinal Emphysema/etiologyAbstract
Introduction: Even though pneumomediastinum cases are not frequent, it has been described as a non-negligible complication in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. According to the available literature at this moment, development of pneumomediastinum in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection does not seem to be related to the classic mechanism of pulmonary barotrauma. This work aims to raise awareness of this nosological entity and its pathophysiology.
Methods: The authors conducted a retrospective study of
all COVID-19 cases with pneumomediastinum between January and February 2021 in an Internal Medicine ward at a Central Hospital - analysis of their comorbidities, disease evolution, complications, and a review of the available literature.
Results: From 400 patients admitted with COVID-19, in 2 months under study, 4 developed pneumomediastinum: all
male, aged between 68 and 81 years, with various comorbidities, mainly cardiovascular. All were subjected to non-invasive mechanical ventilation, with three of them additionally subjected to invasive mechanical ventilation. They evolved unfavorably and ended up dying.
Conclusion: Pneumomediastinum, as a complication of
SARS-CoV-2 infection, proved to be very serious, with a negative outcome in all the identified patients. It is important to be aware of predisposing factors, for early diagnosis and timely intervention.
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