Subcutaneous emphysema

• Illustrations
• Alternative names
• Definition

• Considerations
• Common Causes
• Call your health care provider if

Alternative names    Return to top

Definition    Return to top

Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air gets into tissues under the skin covering the chest wall or neck. This can happen due to stabbing, gun shot wounds, other penetrations, or blunt trauma.

Considerations    Return to top

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    Return to top

This is a rare condition. When it does occur, possible causes include:

• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Ruptured esophagus
• Ruptured bronchial tube

Call your health care provider if    Return to top

Most of the conditions associated with subcutaneous emphysema are very severe and require hospitalization. Medical staff would already be involved in most cases.