Analysing the Clinical Features of Pneumomediastinum Associated with Diabetic Ketoacidosis in 79 Cases

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the clinical features of pneumomediastinum associated with DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) to improve clinicians’ understanding of the disease. METHODS: A total of 78 patients with pneumomediastinum associated with DKA were identified in the literature search, and one patient treated in our hospital was included. The clinical features of the 79 patients were retrospectively analysed, and the pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies and prognoses were explored. RESULTS: All cases were confirmed by chest CT (computed tomography), and Kussmaul respiration, severe vomiting, chest pain were common symptoms. The main treatment principle was to correct acidosis and treat the primary disease. The majority of patients recovered within 1–2 weeks, and only 2 patients died. CONCLUSION: Pneumomediastinum associated with DKA is a rare disease, and it has a benign course when an early diagnosis is made and aetiological treatment is administered.