Subcutaneous emphysema

Subcutaneous emphysema is a condition where air becomes trapped under the skin. Emphysema simply means "air" while "subcutaneous" is in reference to the location of air. This type of emphysema is not like other types of emphysema you have heard of, which are diseases of the lungs, and it is not caused by smoking.

Subcutaneous emphysema is most likely to occur in the chest, neck, and face since these areas of the body are so close to the lungs, but it can occur in all types of the body and for many different reasons. It is more prevalent in men than in women.

Symptoms

There is a wide range of severity when it comes to subcutaneous emphysema. In mild cases you may not experience any symptoms at all while more severe cases can lead to significant discomfort and serious complications. Symptoms of subcutaneous emphysema also vary depending on the underlying cause and where in the body it is located. Almost all people with subcutaneous emphysema will likely experience:

• Edema in the affected area
• A crackling sound when the area is palpated

When the surface of the skin is touched it may make a distinct crackling noise. This is called crepitus and may help medical professionals to initially suspect and then diagnose the condition. This is also why subcutaneous emphysema is sometimes referred to as crepitus or crepitus of the chest. Read more...