Subcutaneous emphysema occurs when air gets into tissues under the skin covering the chest wall or neck.
Subcutaneous emphysema can often be seen as a smooth bulging of the skin. When a health care provider feels (palpates) the skin, it produces an unusual crackling sensation as the gas is pushed through the tissue.
This is a rare condition. When it does occur, possible causes include:
This condition can happen due to:
Air can also be found in between skin layers on the arms and legs or torso during certain infections, including gas gangrene.
Most of the conditions that cause subcutaneous emphysema are very severe. Sometimes a hospital stay is needed. Medical staff should already be involved in most cases.
Crepitus; Subcutaneous air; Tissue emphysema