PNEUMOSCROTUM: A COMPLICATION OF BLUNT CHEST TRAUMA.

Abstract

Background: Subcutaneous emphysema of the scrotum
also known as pneumoscrotum is a rare clinical condition
which presents as a swollen scrotum with palpable
crepitus. Its aetiology is diverse: ranging from trauma to
iatrogenic causes. Only a few cases have been reported
in the literature.
Case Report: We present the case of a 45-year old man
who was referred to the emergency department after a
motorcycle accident. He sustained traumatic brain injury,
blunt chest injury and a closed right femoral fracture. In
addition, he was in respiratory distress and had
subcutaneous emphysema extending to the face, the
scrotum and the upper thigh. A chest radiograph
disclosed widespread lung contusion with 2 broken left
ribs and widespread soft tissue radiolucency. Pelvic x-ray
showed global radiolucency in the scrotum. Scrotal
puncture with a 21G needle yielded expelled air.
Conclusion: Subcutaneous emphysema of the scrotum
itself is not an urgent clinical condition. The underlying
cause (in this case, blunt chest trauma with left multiple
rib fractures), had to be treated as an emergency.