[Post-traumatic subcutaneous emphysema--misdiagnosed as gas gangrene].

Abstract

Two cases of subcutaneous emphysema which developed after minor trauma are presented. One patient had a wound on the tip of the olecranon, and the other an interdigital wound. Both cases were misdiagnosed as gas gangrene, and treated with surgical revision and antibiotics. Neither necrosis nor bacteria were found. Both cases of emphysema were believed to be due to the pumping effect of the movement of the limbs.

• Authors: P S Jørgensen, C Tørholm
• Journal: Ugeskrift for laeger (Ugeskr Laeger) Vol. 152 Issue 35 Pg. 2512-3 (Aug 27 1990) ISSN: 0041-5782 [Print] Denmark
• Vernacular Title: Posttraumatisk subkutant emfysem--fejltolket som gasgangraen.
• PMID: 2402836 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Topics

• Aged
• Arm Injuries (complications)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Diagnostic Errors
• Emphysema (diagnosis)
• Female
• Gas Gangrene (diagnosis)
• Hand Injuries (complications)
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Subcutaneous Emphysema (diagnosis, therapy)