# Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum in a Patient With Undiagnosed Ankylosing Spondylitis

## TL;DR

A 23-year-old man with undiagnosed ankylosing spondylitis was found to have rare spontaneous pneumomediastinum, a condition involving air in the chest area.

## Contribution

This case highlights the rare co-occurrence of spontaneous pneumomediastinum and ankylosing spondylitis.

## Key findings

- The patient was diagnosed with SPM and ankylosing spondylitis using chest CT and spinal MRI.
- The case is unique due to the rare combination of SPM and underlying AS.
- Conservative treatment was effective for the patient's condition.

## Abstract

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is an uncommon condition characterized by air in the interstices of the mediastinum. Management generally involves supportive care; however, if a patient inspires high concentrations of oxygen, the mediastinal air will be absorbed faster. A 23-year-old man who presented with acute-onset breathlessness with a history of more than a year of lower backache was diagnosed with SPM and accompanying ankylosing spondylitis (AS) by a chest CT and spinal MRI and was treated conservatively. This case is being reported for its uniqueness, as SPM with underlying AS is rare.