Medical Health Encyclopedia

Subcutaneous emphysema

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Skin layers

Overview Treatment

Subcutaneous emphysema

Definition:

Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air gets into tissues under the skin covering the chest wall or neck. This can happen due to stabbing, gun shot wounds, other penetrations, or blunt trauma.

Alternative Names:
Crepitus; Subcutaneous air; Tissue emphysema

Text Continues Below

---

Considerations:

Subcutaneous emphysema can often be seen as a smooth bulging of the skin. When a health care provider feels (palpates) the skin, it produces an unusual crackling sensation as the gas is pushed through the tissue.

Common Causes:

This is a rare condition. When it does occur, possible causes include:

• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Ruptured esophagus
• Ruptured bronchial tube

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.