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Cocaine-related Subcutaneous Emphysema, Pneumorrhachis and Pneumomediastinum: a Rare Clinical Finding

Overview
Journal BMJ Case Rep
Specialty General Medicine
Date 2017 Aug 9
PMID 28784876
Citations 2
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Abstract

A young man presented with several days of dyspnoea and delirium due to cocaine use which was confirmed by urine drug screening. Imaging studies confirmed the diagnosis of subcutaneous emphysema, pneumorrhachis and pneumomediastinum. He was managed successfully with conservative therapy.Although a rare clinical finding, cocaine-related pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema and pneumorrhachis should be recognised early on presentation. This will certainly help to effectively direct the use of healthcare resources and avoid subjecting the patient to unnecessary investigations.

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Pneumomediastinum as a complication of cocaine abuse.

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