| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | The presence of gas within the tissue beneath the skin. |
| Alternative Names | Crepitus; Subcutaneous air; Tissue emphysema |
| Considerations | Subcutaneous emphysema is a rare finding, and it is generally related to the inadvertent introduction of air into tissues (such as through a pneumothorax). It can also occur from the production of gas within a tissue by infection such as in gas gangrene . It can occur in the bowel wall from infection with Clostridia difficile -- as is seen in necrotizing enterocolitis in the newborn. Subcutaneous emphysema can often be seen as a smooth bulging of the skin. Palpation , or feeling of the skin, produces an unusual crackling sensation as the gas is pushed through the tissue. |
| Common Causes | Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) Gas gangrene Necrotizing enterocolitis |
| Home Care | Consult your health care provider regarding home care. |
| Call your health care provider if | (This symptom usually occurs late, after other severe symptoms would have already required attention by the health care provider.) |
| What to expect at your health care provider's office | The medical history will be obtained, and a physical examination performed. Medical history questions documenting subcutaneous emphysema in detail may include: What other symptoms are also present? Most of the conditions associated with subcutaneous emphysema are very severe and require hospitalization. After seeing your health care provider: You may want to note the disorder that caused subcutaneous emphysema in your personal medical record. |
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