Foreign body inhalation as a rare cause of pneumomediastinum

Abstract

Despite the fact that Pneumomediastinum owing to a foreign body is uncommon, it might present a difficult clinical scenario in the absence of any suggestive history. Foreign bodies that are radiolucent are more challenging to diagnose. We present a case report of an eight-year-old boy from Bangladesh who developed pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema due to organic foreign body inhalation which was initially misdiagnosed in immediate clinical setting. We discussed how a thorough history and a high level of suspicion aided us in diagnosing and treating such a case. • Pneumomediastinum owing to a foreign body is uncommon. • It might present a difficult clinical scenario in the absence of any suggestive history. • We present a case of pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema due to organic foreign body. • A focused history with a high index of suspicion is required to diagnose.