Subcutaneous emphysema
Alternative names:
crepitus; subcutaneous air; tissue emphysema
Definition:
The presence of gas within the tissue beneath the skin.
Considerations:
Subcutaneous emphysema is a rare finding and generally related to the inadvertent introduction of air into tissues (such as through a pneumomediastinum). It can also occur from the production of gas within a tissue by infection such as in gas gangrene. It can occur in the bowel wall from infection with Clostridia difficile as is seen in necrotizing enterocolitis in the newborn.
Subcutaneous emphysema can often be seen as a smooth bulging of the skin. Palpation, or feeling of the skin, produces an unusual crackling sensation as the gas is pushed through the tissue.
Common causes:
Note: There may be other causes of subcutaneous emphysema. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for subcutaneous emphysema, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
|
