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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Crepitus; Subcutaneous air; Tissue emphysemaDefinition Return to top
Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air gets into tissues under the skin covering the chest wall or neck.
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.
Causes Return to top
This is a rare condition. When it does occur, possible causes include:
This condition can happen due to:
Air can also be found in between skin layers on the arms and legs or torso during certain infections, including gas gangrene.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Most of the conditions that cause subcutaneous emphysema are very severe. Sometimes a hospital stay is needed. Medical staff should already be involved in most cases.
Update Date: 10/13/2008 Updated 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.
