Etymed
pneumomediastinum
Definition
The presence of air or gas in the mediastinum, the central compartment of the thoracic cavity
Clinical context
A 22-year-old male presents to the emergency department after a sudden onset of sharp chest pain that radiates to his neck. He reports feeling like he was 'punched in the chest' during a game of basketball. On examination, he has subcutaneous emphysema noted on palpation of the chest wall. A chest X-ray reveals radiolucent areas surrounding the cardiac silhouette and great vessels.
Mnemonic
Pneumomediastinum = 'Punch' to chest, 'Punch' to diagnosis
These morphemes also unlock…
- pneum/o — lung; air
- mediastin/o — middle of the chest; mediastinum
- -um — structure; condition