Pulmonary Barotrauma Including Huge Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema in an Adult with Status Asthmaticus: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary interstitial emphysema is a rare finding defined as abnormal air collection inside the lung interstitial tissues. Described more frequently in ventilated new-borns, pulmonary interstitial emphysema is an uncommon barotrauma-related complication in adults. Management and clinical sequelae are poorly described. Patient: We describe the case of a 64-year-old man who presented with huge pulmonary interstitial emphysema together with simultaneous pulmonary barotrauma in status asthmaticus requiring invasive ventilation. Discussion: There are no guidelines for the management of such complications and their possible sequelae but conservative treatment seems to be effective. The treatment of our patient is described.

Keywords

• Pulmonary interstitial emphysema
• status asthmaticus
• barotrauma
• mechanical ventilation