SPONTANEOUS PNEUMOMEDIASTINUM : A RARE CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is defined as free air or gas located within the mediastinum that is not associated with any noticeable cause such as chest trauma. SPM has been associated with many conditions including bronchial asthma, diabetic ketoacidosis, forceful straining during exercise, inhalation of psychoactive substances, as well as other activities related to Valsalva maneuver. CT plays an important role in the initial evaluation and is helpful in excluding other causes of pneumomediastinum or chest pain. Stable patients can be managed on a medical basis with analgesics and follow-up imaging.