Intestinal Air in the Mediastinum

Chest. 2021 Sep;160(3):e299-e303. doi: 10.1016/j.chest.2021.04.021.

Abstract

A 74-year-old man, in excellent physical condition and doing regular intense cycling, was evaluated for transient episodes of thoracic discomfort over a period of several months. His medical history only included a right inguinal hernia, surgically treated, and an abdominal aortic aneurysm measured at 46 mm and treated medically. Physical examination did not reveal much information. The patient did not report gastroesophageal reflux, dysphagia, or history of digestive occlusion. The patient had normal weight and had no trauma history. He had no nicotine or alcohol-dependent behaviors. Vital signs were within normal values. Laboratory test results were normal. Functional status was normal, without anomalies of pulmonary function tests or arterial blood gases. The ECG did not reveal any anomaly.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Cavity / surgery
  • Aged
  • Chest Pain / diagnosis
  • Chest Pain / etiology
  • Colon / diagnostic imaging*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Hernias, Diaphragmatic, Congenital* / diagnosis
  • Hernias, Diaphragmatic, Congenital* / physiopathology
  • Hernias, Diaphragmatic, Congenital* / surgery
  • Herniorrhaphy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Laparotomy / methods*
  • Male
  • Mediastinum* / diagnostic imaging
  • Mediastinum* / physiopathology
  • Radiography, Thoracic / methods*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome