Air leak syndrome complicating measles: report of two cases

Abstract

Measles still remains a public health concern despite an understanding of its immunology and availability of potent vaccines. The problem of maintenance of cold chain and vaccine acceptance has decreased the level of herd immunity in most Nigerian communities; therefore, yearly outbreaks are not surprising. Among the complications of measles in the respiratory system are subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, and pneumomediastinum, which may be fatal in some cases. Therefore, cases of air leak seen during a recent measles outbreak are reported.