Spontaneous pneumomediastinum in children

Abstract

Scarce studies about spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) in pediatric patients are published because of lower incidence in a child than an adult. This article is a literature review of pediatric SPM, discussing about aspects of incidence rate, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, management, and prognosis about pediatric SPM. In conclusion, SPM is usually a benign disease and treatable with only supportive care. However, poorer prognosis is noted; if it is complicated with other underlying diseases or complications, then aggressive treatment might be needed.