# Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema: An Unexpected Complication After Noninvasive Ventilation in a COVID-19 Patient

## TL;DR

A 57-year-old man with severe COVID-19 developed rare lung-related complications after noninvasive ventilation, but recovered with conservative treatment.

## Contribution

Reports a rare case of pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema in a COVID-19 patient without typical risk factors.

## Key findings

- Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema occurred in a non-smoker with no lung comorbidities.
- The condition resolved spontaneously with conservative management.
- The patient was discharged in stable condition after treatment.

## Abstract

Pneumomediastinum is a rare clinical condition defined by the presence of free air in the mediastinum. We present the case of a 57-year-old male with severe COVID-19 pneumonia, complicated by pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema, in a patient without identifiable risk factors for such complications. The patient, a non-smoker with no known lung comorbidities, received medical treatment for COVID-19 and underwent non-invasive ventilation prior to the onset of emphysema. Like most cases, it resolved spontaneously with conservative management, including close monitoring, bed rest, analgesia, and oxygen therapy. The patient was discharged in stable condition.