PMC4119635_01
Chest X-ray showing air outlining mediastinal structures (arrows) and subcutaneous emphysema in the area of the left axilla (circle).
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fig1
Trauma (e-FAST) showed no evidence of a pneumothorax, pericardial/pleural effusion, or intra-abdominal fluid. The chest X-ray showed lucent streaks of gas that outlined mediastinal structures and a subcutaneous emphysema in the area of the left axilla (Figures 1(a) and 1(b)).
Chest computed tomography showing air outlining mediastinal structures (arrows) and a small pulmonary contusion on the left side (circle).
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fig2
Computed tomography confirmed the diagnosis of a pneumomediastinum and in addition showed a small pulmonary contusion on the left side (Figures 2(a) and 2(b)) without any other findings.
Chest X-ray showing complete resolution of findings compared to Figures 1(a) and 1(b).
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Within 4 days the pneumomediastinum resolved completely on chest X-ray (Figures 3(a) and 3(b)) and the now asymptomatic patient was discharged.