Abstract
Methamphetamines are commonly abused drugs for their stimulant and euphoric effects. Inhaled and intravenous use may cause damage to the respiratory system. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a condition where changes in intrathoracic pressure leads to alveolar rupture and dissection of air along the tracheobronchial tree. Massive subcutaneous emphysema may result from pneumomediastinum which may compromise the central airway. In this case report, we present an unusual case of spontaneous pneumomediastinum and severe subcutaneous emphysema following inhalation of methamphetamine. This case emphasizes the rising concern on the acute respiratory complications of methamphetamine use.
Highlights
Inhaled and intravenous use of stimulants may cause a variety of respiratory injuries
Our case focuses on the uncommon complication of methamphetamine use in which spontaneous pneumomediastinum led to severe subcutaneous emphysema and central airway compromise
Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is the presence of free air in the mediastinum without any obvious primary pathologic event such as trauma, intrathoracic infections, or violation of the aerodigestive track [2]
Summary
Methamphetamines are commonly abused drugs for their stimulant and euphoric effects. Inhaled and intravenous use may cause damage to the respiratory system. Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is a condition where changes in intrathoracic pressure leads to alveolar rupture and dissection of air along the tracheobronchial tree. Massive subcutaneous emphysema may result from pneumomediastinum which may compromise the central airway. In this case report, we present an unusual case of spontaneous pneumomediastinum and severe subcutaneous emphysema following inhalation of methamphetamine. We present an unusual case of spontaneous pneumomediastinum and severe subcutaneous emphysema following inhalation of methamphetamine This case emphasizes the rising concern on the acute respiratory complications of methamphetamine use
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