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J Pediatr Intensive Care 2018; 07(04): 213-215
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1653981
Case Report
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

The Heart's Halo: Caring for Pediatric Pneumopericardium

Ivanna N. Maxson
1   Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
,
Harsha K. Chandnani
1   Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
2   Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
,
Richard Paul Lion
1   Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
2   Division of Critical Care, Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, United States
› Author Affiliations Funding None.
Further Information

Publication History

23 February 2018

15 April 2018

Publication Date:
16 May 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Pediatric pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium (PPC) are rare complications, which can arise from various etiologies. We report a case of pediatric PPC secondary to an asthma exacerbation and discuss relevant diagnostic and management principles. Physicians must be aware of PPC and its implications due to the high mortality rate. PPC patients require close observation with continuous cardiorespiratory and telemetry monitoring, and providers experienced in the management of cardiac tamponade at a center capable of providing cardiothoracic surgical intervention. Time to resolution is multifactorial, but can be achieved promptly with supportive care and treatment of underlying condition.

Keywords

pneumopericardium - pediatric - critical care
 

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