Subcutaneous emphysema (Crepitus, Subcutaneous air, Tissue emphysema)

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Subcutaneous emphysema

Alternate Names : Crepitus, Subcutaneous air, Tissue emphysema

Definition

Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air gets into tissues under the skin covering the chest wall or neck.

Overview & 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:

Collapsed lung (pneumothorax), often occurring with a rib fracture
Facial bone fracture
Ruptured bronchial tube
Ruptured esophagus

This condition can happen due to:

Blunt trauma
Gun shot wounds
Stabbing

Air can also be found in between skin layers on the arms and legs or torso during certain infections, including gas gangrene.

Pictures & Images

Skin layers

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Subcutaneous emphysema : Definition
Subcutaneous emphysema : Overview & Considerations
Subcutaneous emphysema : Common Causes
Subcutaneous emphysema : Call your Health Care Provider if
Subcutaneous emphysema : Pictures & Images
Skin layers

Review Date : 10/13/2008
Reviewed By : John E. Duldner, Jr., MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine, Director of Research, Department of Emergency Medicine, Akron General Medical Center and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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