Clinical Significance of Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum

Conclusions Spontaneous pneumomediastinum is usually associated with a benign clinical course. Risk factors for esophageal perforation in these patients include age, elevated white blood cell count, and a pleural effusion. In the absence of abnormal laboratory values or associated radiologic findings, the majority of patients with SPM may be safely observed without the need for further diagnostic testing.
Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery - Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Source Type: research